How to Spot Potential Contractor Fraud - Here Are 10 Red Flags

 Contractors are having to bid with minimal profit, if any, just to stay afloat and projects that would have garnered only a handful quality bids in better times are now seeing 4 and 5 times the number of bids as was once the norm. The low number for a new construction, remodel, home improvement or repair project is not necessarily the best number and without your due diligence may bring you more headaches than you know.

Patco construction company

Signs of Potential Contractor Fraud:

Contractor shows up unsolicited and offers services in exchange for payment

Contractor is unable or unwilling to provide references for prior work performed

Contractor asks for payment in full up front or asks for payment in cash

Contractor provides a "lump sum" or very general estimate lacking detail

Contractor's place of contact is a hotel, work truck, construction trailer or any other place not verifiable as an established business

Contractor does not have a local office or local phone

Contractor is unwilling to provide evidence of Certificates of Insurance for General Liability or Worker's Compensation

Contractor prefers to handle all contact in person and avoids the use of mail or email

Contractor does not have a license or contractor's bond required in those states issuing licenses as a requirement to do work

Contractor's bid is too low in comparison to other bids received for the same work

Proceed with Caution

If you've made the decision to hire a contractor, then exercise contractor fraud prevention before signing on the dotted line. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

Obtain bids and written estimates from at least 3 reputable contractors who have been referred by friends, co-workers or other family members

Contact the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been registered against the contractor(s) you are considering. This step is invaluable and often overlooked

As a general rule, if you don't understand it, don't sign it. Seek outside assistance, if necessary, for interpretation of contract terms and don't be afraid to make changes

Never leave any blank areas on a signed contract and make sure you get a copy of the contract and the contractor's insurance BEFORE any work begins

In most areas, you have 3 days to cancel a contract if solicited at a place other than the company's place of business. If you do decide to cancel, do it in writing by registered mail with a return receipt

Final payment to a contractor should NEVER be made until the contractor provides verification, through signed lien releases, that his subcontractors and suppliers have been paid for their work and work is completed

Check your state's Licensing Requirements

A general note, some states have minimum dollar limits before a contractor is required to be licensed for example, the state of Arkansas requires contractors, who choose to bid on construction projects, to have a license if the value of the work is $20,000 or greater. Each state's requirements will vary. These can be verified through your state's Contractor's Board.

Avoiding Contractor Fraud

Taking into account these 10 Red Flags and then taking a few extra steps when you have decided on a contractor, can mean the difference between a successful project or having to deal with the loss and embarrassment of contractor fraud or a contractor scam.

You as a consumer do have rights when dealing with any contractor. Know your rights, before starting any home improvement, repair or addition and check with your local state or municipality for any laws pertaining to the licensing of contractors and insurance requirements in your state.

Stopping contractor fraud starts with consumers who are best informed and know what signs to look for. You work hard for your money so you should expect nothing less than getting full benefit from every dollar spent.

Visit Succeed With Contractors to get in depth information about new construction, home remodel and renovation when working with construction trades. Find tips for making the most of your design, get the questions you should ask a contractor, see how to avoid contractor scams, how to work within your budget...plus much more.