The season for home improvement projects is underway and BBB is warning consumers about doing business with Town and Country Construction or T & C Construction at 800-237-5290. This company has been going door-to-door, and may be targeting the elderly. The company’s representatives have been identified as Patrick Fuller and Frank Winans. They drive an older white utility truck with a cherry picker attached.
In January 2009, an 85 year old consumer in the metro Omaha area reported to BBB that a man came to her door and told her that she needed work done to her home, and he was the one to do the job. The victim felt pressured by his sales pitch and agreed to the repairs for $1,500. On March 3, 2009 the company returned and wrote another proposal for $9,863.42, which she also agreed to pay. In addition, the consumer was told that they needed an additional $2,000 for supplies.
A BBB investigation revealed that this consumer actually paid for the first contract twice, along with the second contract and supplies for a total of $14,863.42. The work has not been completed and the victim feels her home was actually damaged by this company. She also claims that antique bottles worth approximately $500 were stolen. A police report has been filed and a fraud report was completed at her bank. She is fearful they will return.
On May 11, 2009, the same company took $6,400 from an 87 year old woman who also lives in Omaha. Jim Hegarty, BBB president and CEO stated, “The BBB had a technical advisor evaluate the work done by Town and Country Construction at this victim’s home. Our expert estimated the value of the work to be only $300, if it had been done properly, but it had not.”
“There are many reputable, hard-working, home improvement contractors in our area, but unfortunately there are a few who are less than reputable. Door-to-door con artists are usually charming and friendly. They are successful because they appear so trusting. For this reason, we encourage consumers to do their homework before contracting with any business. It’s important to protect yourself from being ripped off by con artists,” said Hegarty.
BBB has the following tips for homeowners before hiring a home improvement contractor:
· Be suspicious if a salesperson greets you by name, approaches you while you are outside your home, or demands cash as payment for their product or service
· Don’t ever let any one you don’t know into your home
· Verify that the contractor has the appropriate licenses and they are bonded and insured
· Make certain terms and conditions of the contract are in writing before the work begins
· Always ask to see the person’s credentials and call the company they are representing to verify them. You do not have to make any purchase immediately. You can ask the person to return after you have had time to check out their legitimacy, if you wish to purchase their product or service
· Check out the company with BBB at 402-391-7612, 800-649-6814 or at bbb.org