Avoid Contractor Scams to Maintain Home Security
Threats to home security can come when we least expect them. Dishonest contractors are everywhere, and it is sad to see when they take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners. Luckily, Louisville home security has one less risk today, as police arrested a deceitful landscaper.
Thomas R. Wright Jr., a 44-year-old Louisville man accepted money from his victim in exchange for doing landscaping work, including trimming tree branches. The victim is a 69-year old woman who lived alone. She paid a total of $1290 to Wright for the work to be done in June and July 2011. She was unable to check to see if the work was done, but received complaints from city officials that there was debris in her yard. When she realized no work had been done, she contacted the police.
In mid-September, Wright came back to the home, at midnight, and pounded on the woman's door demanding another $500. He also left her a threatening note saying that she had "better think about it". Every homeowner would be frightened by a lying contractor pounding on their door at midnight demanding money. The reason that many homeowners install and use home security systems is to prevent them from becoming victims of violence during the night, when they are alone, asleep, and defenseless.
Protect yourself from lying contractors by following all of these safety tips:
It is easy to get scammed by sleazy repairmen because most are hardworking, honest, and helpful. It is in our nature to be trusting and believe people when we feel comfortable. By doing your research in advance, getting recommendations, and asking questions, you are more likely to find honest people to help you maintain and improve your home. When working with contractors, even ones you trust, always remember to maintain your home security and family safety through door locks and a Louisville home security system.
Thomas R. Wright Jr., a 44-year-old Louisville man accepted money from his victim in exchange for doing landscaping work, including trimming tree branches. The victim is a 69-year old woman who lived alone. She paid a total of $1290 to Wright for the work to be done in June and July 2011. She was unable to check to see if the work was done, but received complaints from city officials that there was debris in her yard. When she realized no work had been done, she contacted the police.
In mid-September, Wright came back to the home, at midnight, and pounded on the woman's door demanding another $500. He also left her a threatening note saying that she had "better think about it". Every homeowner would be frightened by a lying contractor pounding on their door at midnight demanding money. The reason that many homeowners install and use home security systems is to prevent them from becoming victims of violence during the night, when they are alone, asleep, and defenseless.
Protect yourself from lying contractors by following all of these safety tips:
- Check that your contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. This will ensure that he or she is properly trained, registered with city and state organizations, and has insurance in case of an accident or injury.
- Look up the contractor's record on the Better Business Bureau to verify if there are any legitimate complaints. Anyone you use should have a good grade, and no complaints regarding service or communication.
- Research contractor recommendations using websites like Angie's List. You should review complaints carefully and think about if this is someone who you want inside your house and working on your home. Your home security is at stake.
- Make sure you have a signed estimate, proposal or contract before payment is made or work is done. This will outline exactly what work will be done, when it will be completed, and what homeowners should expect.
It is easy to get scammed by sleazy repairmen because most are hardworking, honest, and helpful. It is in our nature to be trusting and believe people when we feel comfortable. By doing your research in advance, getting recommendations, and asking questions, you are more likely to find honest people to help you maintain and improve your home. When working with contractors, even ones you trust, always remember to maintain your home security and family safety through door locks and a Louisville home security system.
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