The Better Business Bureau has a few simple tips you can follow to avoid renovation fraud this pandemic in Canada, and the United States:
1. Get Three Quotes - Make sure you're talking to contractors with a fixed home address in your area, and that the estimates are presented in writing.
2. Talk To Their Bank - If the renovation is substantial, ask your bank to check your contractors financial standing, to ensure any transactions remain on the level.
3. Get A Written Contract - Details should include a summation of the scope of work to be completed, labor and material charges, and any included warranties/guarantees.
4. Contract Your Insurance Company - Basic home owners insurance does not cover construction errors, and related issues. Make sure you're covered before any major home renovations/remodels.
5. Be Alert And Suspicious - Any contractor attempting to give you a cut rate price, or a deal on used materials likely isn't to be trusted.
While the Better Business Bureau does not directly advise on the use of a 3rd party service, Renovation Trust was designed to negate much of the risk involved in bad faith dealings with potentially fraudulent contractors.
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