By Kristina Ayr/reporter

Floods, tornadoes and hail have caused damage to vehicles and homes throughout North Texas. So when consumers search for repairs the Better Business Bureau warns caution must be exercised to avoid scam artists.

Tips for Home Repairs

Consult with your insurance company first and be sure to keep contact information near by. Be apprehensive of door-to-door workers or telemarketers offering services, repairs or speedy insurance processing.

Shop around for contractors, requiring written bids with clear costs for labor and materials.

Compare bids, get references and require proof of proper licenses, permits and insurance prior to the start of work. Check the contractor’s history with the Better Business Bureau.

Get a notarized statement saying everyone has been paid in full.

Allow heating/cooling to be cleaned out before any repairs begin.

Tips for Vehicle Repairs

Shop around for quality repair services.

Require written bids, get references from past customers and check the company’s history with the Better Business Bureau.

Do not pay in advance for work and do not pay in cash. Check out the vehicle’s history when searching for a used vehicle by requesting a vehicle report based on the VIN number.

Look for rust, mud, watermarks, etc. for previous damage.

Tips for Avoiding
Financial Issues

Financial issues can arise at any time, whether from severe damage to the home or workplace.

Make sure you have all your credit cards. If you do not, call the company immediately to cancel or suspend the card.

If you’re unemployed because of severe damage, call your creditors. Know and discuss what you can arrange to pay.

Know the terms, fees and interest rates for your credit cards.

People can be targeted when offering help to someone in need. Make sure to contact the Better Business Bureau to check out a charity. Also, be cautious of door-to-door collectors and collectors who are not affiliated with an organization.

The Better Business Bureau is a not-for-profit agency providing a variety of services. It provides information about businesses and business standards and helps resolve complaints regarding businesses.
If you are a victim of a scam artist or poor workmanship, contact the BBB. This can alert others of who is involved, or it might help you recover your investment.

The Better Business Bureau of Fort Worth can be reached at 817-332-7585, at www.fwbbb.org or at info@fwbb.org.