Avoid Rip-Offs and Scams

A story in today’s Denver Post brings attention to a growing trend: scams and rip-offs for home maintenance work, particularly victimizing the elderly. This particular story highlights a landscaping scam, while other scams are frequently seen following events such as hailstorms, for instance, when many people are needing new roofs. Authorities warn consumers never to hire a contractor who comes door to door. Instead, carefully choose someone and initiate the contact yourself. For more on scams and rip-offs see the Attorney General’s information on Home Repair Fraud. For information specific to senior citizens, see the AG’s publication Respecting our Elders: A Statewide Action Plan to Combat Senior Fraud. If you believe you have been victimized by a fraudulent contractor or other business person, you can notify the AG’s office by filing a consumer complaint, or you can contact your local district attorney’s office.