ROCKFORD — As we ushered in a new season, spring scams are in the air. This is the season for home improvement tricks as well as the inevitable storm chasers. The Better Business Bureau says scammers are opening up shop with seasonal ploys to steal your money, identity, and confidence in the marketplace. And that’s before flowers even bloom.
“Con artists are inventive and bold,” says Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Office of the Better Business Bureau. “Spring gives scammers a range of new opportunities. With warmer weather, people are thrilled to be able to start more outdoor home improvement and repair projects, but you have to be careful to reduce your risk of scams.”
Home Improvement Scams climbed to #4 on BBB’s list of scams posing the most significant risk to consumers. BBB released the rankings last week in its annual BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report, with people losing more than $955 per incident.
“You could encounter a scammer via text or email; on the phone; online; or even in person. The losses can be devastating,” says Horton.
Drywall, paint jobs, plumbing, roofing, electric, HVAC service, and other home improvement projects all have scam potential. Shoddy storm damage repair is another lucrative con. Usually, warmer weather can usher in intense storms with high winds and heavy rains.
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