Proceed with caution

• By: davew
• On: 03/20/2009 13:15:43
• In: Homeowner Scams Thrive in this Recession
• Comments: 0

Surprisingly enough in this economy, I’m finding that trusted service providers have to be watched a little more closely.  I just had a situation where one of the service providers that I’ve recommended to many clients is now trying to bolster his income by creating unnecessary work for himself. 

This gutter cleaning company that I’ve recommended many times said to one of my clients that her gutters were in serious need of repair.  When the client told the gutter cleaner that her house was brand new, he said it was probably inferior workmanship or materials.  One of the items that he pointed out was the corners where the gutters are mitered.  He claimed that those joints were leaking.  After being notified by my client of this situation, I went to the job on a rainy day and checked everything that he claimed was deficient.  I found no leaks. Everything was as it should be. 

I contacted the gutter guy and explained to him in contractor language that it would be in his best interest to tell the truth and maintain a good relationship and just do his best, like the rest of us.  I too am affected by the economy but that wouldn’t change my business practices because when things start moving again, the reputation that I’ve worked to achieve for the past 29 years would be gone.

I’m not saying you can’t trust guys that have worked for you for years and have done a good job.   But take a few minutes to see exactly what they’re talking about before you agree to anything.  In other words, may the buyer beware.