Local Home Builders Warn Against Fly-By-Night Contractors

Professional Trade Association Offers Tips on Hiring Reputable Contractors

The Winnebago Home Builders Association (WHBA) is urging area residents to be on the lookout for "fly-by-night" contractors in the wake of the devastating flooding that has plagued Winnebago County over the past week.

"WHBA members share a special bond with our friends and neighbors whose homes have been damaged by the recent flood," said WHBA President Phil Baeten, a local remodeling contractor. "As we come together to repair our homes and neighborhoods, we need to work together to ensure that our communities are not victimized by fraudulent, "fly-by-night" contactors.

WHBA suggests keeping the following advice in mind if you need to hire a contractor to perform repairs on any part of your home:

• Find out if the contractor has a permanent business address and can provide references 
• Ask the contractor to present his or her Dwelling Contractor Certification and Certificate of Financial Responsibility cards provided by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce
• Research how long the contractor has been in business
• Contact the Better Business Bureau and see if the business has a record of unresolved complaints
• Make sure you get a complete, clearly written contract for any work to be done 
• Do not pay any cash up front unless you have signed a valid contract 

Since fraud is often one of the untold costs associated with natural disasters, area residents should be concerned if you experience any of these common tactics used by unscrupulous contractors:

·         You're told that on this job, a contract "won't be necessary"

·         You're asked to pay for the entire job "up front" — or pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check or money order to a company

·         You are confronted with scare tactics, intimidation or threats.

·         You're told you've been "chosen" as a demonstration project at a special, low price

·         You're told a "special" low price is good only if you sign a contract today

·         The contractor won't give you references — or the references can't be located

·         You can't verify the contractor's business address

·         You're asked to pull the permit in order for the contractor to perform the work

Baeten said one of the best ways for Winnebago County residents to protect themselves is to use an experienced, local contractor with strong ties to the community.

"Our community's experienced builders and remodelers are among the best in the nation. As you begin the process of repairing your home, don't settle for second best" Baeten said. "Doing business with a WHBA member will give you the piece of mind that your contractor is a skilled and knowledgeable craftsman who is committed to our community and a code of ethics," Baeten added.

For a complete list of WHBA members, please visit our online "Find a Member" feature at www.whba.net or contact the WHBA Office at 235.2962 for more information.

WHBA is a 250 member professional trade organization made up of builders, remodelers and associates representing all aspects of the home building industry in Winnebago County.