April showers may bring May flowers, but they also prompt the onslaught of scam artists who prey on homeowners. If you get a knock on your door with an offer that sounds too good to be true, it probably is, according to the Better Business Bureau.

Seniors are often targets of these scams, the National Consumer Law Center warns. These so-called contractors use various methods - phone calls, flyers, advertisements, and door-to-door sales.

Watch out for "bait and switch" tactics. For example, a contractor may offer a low price for installed items like windows or siding then tell you the item is out of stock and can only be replaced with a more expensive substitute.

Sometimes a contractor will use more than one contract for a single repair to confuse the homeowner. Be sure to pay close attention to the price you discussed. Deceptive contractors might put higher prices in the contract or add hidden charges. The contract should spell out - in a readable fashion - explicit specifications, standards, and brands.

Scam artists may also leave before the job is complete if you've paid in full. Be sure the terms of your contract dictate that the final payment won't be made until the job is done.

You should also pay close attention to the contract language, specifically whether the contract itself grants a lien on your home to the contractor, bank, or finance company. Even when the contract doesn't give a lien, the law generally gives the contractor the right to put a lien against the property, potentially preventing the property's sale and resulting in foreclosure.

The NCLC says another red flag is if the contractor tries to arrange a loan for you. Problems with the lender can then arise if the contractor doesn't finish the job or does poor work. You'll want to try to determine if there is a connection between the contractor and the lender. Some of the things you'll want to keep an eye out for include an ongoing relationship between the contractor and the lender, documents of one party with the other party's name pre-printed on them, commissions or kickbacks, and ownership of one party by the other.

The BBB says these "fly-by-night operators" may drive vehicles with out-of-state license plates, or set up temporary offices so they can move quickly once law enforcement is alerted of their misdeeds.

In addition, if you're considering rendering the services of a contractor, the BBB suggests you:

Published: April 29, 2002

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