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For more information contact: Repairs Projected to Pile-up as Record Snows Begin to Melt February 12, 2010 -- As Marylanders dig-out from back-to-back, historic snowfalls and put immediate clean-up efforts behind them, Better Business Bureau warns opportunists will be around the corner looking for victims of their own. "These back-breaking snow storms can do damage to roofs, trees, decks, leaky basements, you name it," said Angie Barnett, president CEO, Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland. "Like any disaster, motorists, homeowners and consumers in general, need to take great care in the selection of service providers to help them in the after-math of the snow. "While the snow is still settling in the Mid-Atlantic, hurricanes and other natural disasters have attracted traveling scam-artists in the past. It's a pretty sure bet this disaster will have the same affect cautions BBB. Not only do consumers need to be on the look-out for unscrupulous roof, siding and asphalt repairmen who show-up in front of their homes like knights in shining armor, but they need to use common-sense and resist making quick and/or emotional decisions when choosing any contractor, restoration firm, tree service or service provider. BBB offers the following tips for selecting a contractor for home repairs: · A contract should include a description of all the work to be performed, including the quality of materials to be used. · Homeowners should not make decisions they are uncomfortable with or be pushed into making a decision. · If you are forced out of your home by the snow or resulting damage to your home, save your receipts, including those for food and temporary lodging, as they may be covered under your insurance policy. Contracts should include a price break-down for both labor and materials. · Any promises made orally should be written into the contract, including any warranties on materials or labor. · References at least a year old should be requested. It may seem impossible to travel to an unaffected area to inspect references after a disaster, but remember the time spent will be minor in comparison to the possibility of living with inferior repair work for years. · Review all documentation before any payments are made and before signing the dotted line. · Homeowners should be suspicious of door-to-door workers who, in order to get the job, may use scare tactics such as allegedly unsafe structural conditions. · Homeowners should check to see if the company's name is on the worker's vehicle, if the company is listed in the telephone directory, and if a street address is provided. · Check with BBB to make sure the contractor has a satisfactory record of performance and can be trusted with your business. · Contact the Maryland Home Improvement Commission
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