FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Tony Mangan, Communications Director, 605-773-6878
PIERRE, S.D. – With the summer storm season here, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley warns South Dakotans impacted by severe weather to be wary of transit vendors offering to do storm repairs.
“In the aftermath of severe weather, scammers often prey on homeowners with promises of quick and cheap repairs,” said Attorney General Jackley. “We urge residents to be cautious, don’t rush into agreements, always verify contractors, and report any suspicious behavior.”
The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division recommends citizens:
- GET a price quote in writing with the name of the business and contact information listed.
- ASK to see their sales tax license to ensure they can do business in South Dakota.
- COMPARE prices of local businesses to make sure you make the best decision.
- AVOID paying the full amount prior to the completion of the job.
- CHECK to make sure all suppliers have been paid before making the final payment – you don’t want liens placed on your property for unpaid supplies.
- DON’T be rushed into making a quick decision on hiring a vendor. Check first with other companies.
- NEVER provide personal or financial information to anyone pretending to be a business.
Consumers who have questions or who believe they may have been a victim of any type of scam should contact the Attorney General’s Office’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or at https://consumer.sd.gov/.
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