County of Monmouth
For Immediate Release:
March 16, 2010

After storm, be wary of home improvement schemes
Consumer Affairs staff offers tips to follow when making repairs

FREEHOLD, NJ – The weekend’s storm has caused major headaches for many homeowners. Basements got flooded, roofs were damaged by strong winds, and trees fell on cars and houses.
           
If you need to hire a contractor to make repairs to your home, vehicles or other property, the Monmouth County Department of Consumer Affairs has some reminders to help you be a smart consumer even in an emergency situation.
 
When contracting for home repair services:
  • Beware of door-to-door solicitors selling home repair work. To find someone reputable, ask friends and families who have recently used a home repair contractor or professional.
  • Obtain at least three written estimates on the work to be done. A reputable contractor or professional will never try to pressure you to obtain your business.
  • Obtain and check at least three references from the contractor or professional.
  • Obtain a written contract, with all details in writing, including any name brands of windows and other materials. Home improvement contractors and landscapers must be registered with the State of New Jersey. Ask for the registration number if it is not on the contract. You can check their registration status at www.njconsumeraffairs.gov or by calling the county’s Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-431-7900.
  • The total price should be on the contract, as well as an itemization of work and materials. A time period as to when work will begin and be completed by the seller also must be included.
  • Avoid paying for the entire job up front. One-third in advance, one-third halfway through the job and one-third upon completion is the usual arrangement.
  • Get all permits. Check with your local municipality.
  • Contracts signed in your home must include a three-day period during which you may cancel.
  • Make sure all warranties and guarantees are in writing.
If you have water in your basement:
  • Get more than one estimate. This will help you compare costs and more importantly try to get feedback as to what is the cause of the leak. For example, is the problem in the basement walls, ground pitch or an underground problem?
  • Get a warranty. Check to see if the warranty covers parts, labor or both. Also, see how long the warranty is in effect.
  • Know your warranty limitations. For example, are you guaranteed not to get any water in your basement from now on or is your warranty only for the section that was serviced?
  • Your warranty is good as long as the business stays in business.
If your car was submerged or standing in a foot or more of water for more than an hour, have the car checked out by a car dealer or a repair shop. Even if the car runs, there may be hidden damage that could pose serious problems later.
  • Be sure to get detailed written estimates and keep copies of all receipts and invoices.
  • Towing fees are set by the municipalities. If you believe you were overcharged for towing, contact the municipality from where the car was towed.
Warning signs of unscrupulous contractors or professionals include:
  • Asking for a large payment before work can begin.
  • Asking for cash.
  • Telling you there is no need for a written contract – that a verbal agreement is enough.
  • Not having a business address, business card, or in the case of home improvement contractors, not producing a state license number.
 
The department also maintains a “complaint history” on all reported businesses in Monmouth County, which can be helpful to consumers who are considering an agreement or transaction with a local business.
 
Additional information about consumer affairs can be found on the county Web site at http://www.visitmonmouth.com/ or by calling 732-431-7900. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
 
The Consumer Affairs department is a law enforcement agency, created and funded by the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders. It protects against consumer fraud and dishonest and unscrupulous business practices by enforcing the state Consumer Fraud Act and other regulations.
 
“The county’s Consumer Affairs office enforces consumer laws and helps people whether violations are present or not,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the department. “In 2009 the department mediated 800 complaints and recovered more than $550,000 for consumers. This is one of the many important ways the county is able to assist residents.”
 
Mediation includes letters, telephone calls, e-mails, faxes and informal conferences with businesses. If a business is uncooperative and does not appear as scheduled, the department has the authority to subpoena, a function coordinated with the Monmouth County Sheriff’s office.
 
 
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