Scam alert!
Lakewood’s older residents have recently become the targets of repair scams that are leaving them scared and vulnerable and bilking them thousands of dollars. Taking advantage of the recent rough winter, some bogus contractors pressure the vulnerable elderly into repair work that is overpriced, not covered by city building permits, and often incompetently done . . . or not done at all.
You may be approached this summer by a contractor with a "horror story" about the condition of your roof or gutters and the "great deal" the contractor can offer. Remember: a deal that is too good to be true is almost always not true!
Before you hire anyone to work on your home, get at least two estimates from contractors who are licensed and known in the community. A "contractor" with left-over roofing materials from "a job down the block" who offers to do a quick repair job -- but only if you make a decision on the spot -- is setting you up for a fleecing.
When you hire a contractor, ask to see his or her pocket license form and some other kind of identification. Write down the name and six-digit license number, and then call the Contractors State License Board at 1-800-321-CSLB to verify that the contractor’s license is valid.
Never sign any agreement or authorize any work without taking time to read the agreement and discussing exactly what work will be done with the contractor.
Before you hire anyone, pick up a free guide to hiring a contractor at Lakewood City Hall (5050 Clark Avenue in the Lakewood Civic Center).
When in doubt, call text Lakewood building inspection team. You can call us directly at 866-9771.
