COLUMBUS — In the aftermath of severe storms that have hit the area in recent weeks, Ohioans were reminded to watch out for home repair scams and fake charities soliciting donations.
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“They look to severe weather watches and warnings to try and make a quick buck,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said in a media release Thursday.
“And bogus charities come from the swamp. Their goal is to rip off people who are trying to help.”
The Attorney General’s Office says unscrupulous contractors travel to storm damaged communities to offer services to homeowners but perform either shoddy work or no work at all. In many cases, they go door to door, claiming they can complete the work immediately.
Yost offers these tips to avoid home-repair scams:
- Research the business
- Get multiple written estimates
- Don’t make large payments in advance
- Get all promises in writing
- Understand your cancellation rights
- Consider paying with a credit card
As for charity donations, the Attorney General’s Office says donors should research charities and ask questions so their donations are used as intended.
If people suspect unfair sales practices or misuse of charitable resources, you should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 800-282-0515.
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