Attorney General Larry Long Warns Consumers of Home Repair Scams

PIERRE, S.D. –    Attorney General Larry Long is reminding consumers to be cautious when dealing with transient contractors who are coming door-to-door promising low prices for roofing, paving or painting. These individuals claim that they have leftover materials from other jobs they just finished and offer a good deal for a low price. 

“My Consumer Protection investigators are receiving calls from consumers who have received poor quality work from door-to-door contractors who charge inflated prices,” said Long. “Avoid becoming a victim by asking neighbors, friends or local law enforcement about the legitimacy of these offers.”

Here are some tips to consider prior to having the work done:

• Request a written contract specifying in detail the work to be done and the agreed upon price.
  
• Be cautious if cash-only terms are required.
  
• Ask for local references and call these references to make sure they were satisfied with the work.
  
• Get bids from local companies to compare prices. If you buy locally, you will know where you can find the seller if there is a problem.
  
• Request a three day right-to-cancel on all door-to-door sales contracts.
  
• Obtain a copy of the contact or receipt at the time of the sale. This receipt must show the date of the sale, the name and address of the merchant, and a statement to the buyer of his or her right to cancel the contract within three days. After proper cancellation, the seller has 10 days to refund your money.
  
• Remember that a legitimate offer does not require you to have the work done immediately. Do not get pressured into a sale.

If you have any questions or concerns about transient contractors contact the Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or consumerhelp@state.sd.us. 

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