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Insights on Companies and Trust

Siding Shortcuts That Cost Consumers
Repair & Maintenance Exterior & Landscaping Safety & Security Scam Prevention Home Services

Dale Cardwell

Siding Shortcuts That Cost Consumers

Siding replacement mistakes can result in damage and costly repairs. The right installer and the right materials for your climate make all the difference.

How Long Should a Wood Deck Last?
Repair & Maintenance Exterior & Landscaping Safety & Security Home Services

Ki Corley

How Long Should a Wood Deck Last?

A wood deck's lifespan averages 10 to 20 years. Learn the warning signs, maintenance tips, material options, repair costs and replacement advice.

Chimney Scams and Fireplace Hazards to Watch For
Repair & Maintenance Safety & Security Scam Prevention Home Services

Dale Cardwell

Chimney Scams and Fireplace Hazards to Watch For

Chimney inspections can reveal gas leaks, creosote, and water damage; photos and written estimates help separate needed repairs from sales pressure.

Vacation Rental Cancellation Dispute: A $2,200 Lesson
Finance & Tips Safety & Security

Marnie Zambri

Vacation Rental Cancellation Dispute: A $2,200 Lesson

A cancellation policy dispute puts a $2,200 coastal rental at risk. See how conflicting contracts nearly lost one woman her deposit.

Circadian Lighting in a Smart Home: What Matters
Repair & Maintenance Home Services Safety & Security Verified Businesses

Ki Corley

Circadian Lighting in a Smart Home: What Matters

Circadian lighting adjusts brightness and color temperature throughout the day, helping homes and businesses support comfort, focus, and healthier sleep routines.

Electrical Panel Warning Signs Homeowners Shouldn't Ignore
Repair & Maintenance Safety & Security Home Services

Dale Cardwell

Electrical Panel Warning Signs Homeowners Shouldn't Ignore

Electrical panel safety is a growing concern as homes add EV chargers, hot tubs, and smart devices. Learn warning signs, risks, and find out when it's time to call an electrician.

Rental Scam Warning: The Case of the Dodgy Deposit
Safety & Security Scam Prevention

Marnie Zambri

Rental Scam Warning: The Case of the Dodgy Deposit

An Atlanta rental scam cost Corey Mayville $800 in Bitcoin. His case shows why Home Service Companies and Commercial Service Companies need vetting, like we do at TrustDALE.

How to Research Health Insurance Safely Online
Finance & Tips Healthcare Safety & Security Scam Prevention

Dale Cardwell

How to Research Health Insurance Safely Online

Shopping for health insurance? Learn to spot legitimate security checks, compare plan costs, protect your information, and avoid suspicious offers.

Blueprint for Disaster: Contractor Cons that Cost Homeowners Big Bucks
Home Services Repair & Maintenance Safety & Security Scam Prevention Verified Businesses

Dale Cardwell

Blueprint for Disaster: Contractor Cons that Cost Homeowners Big Bucks

From unfinished projects and disappearing deposits to sloppy workmanship and broken promises, contractor scams can drain homeowners’ bank accounts and leave renovation dreams in ruins.

Roof Roulette: How Storm Chasers Target Homeowners
Exterior & Landscaping Home Services Repair & Maintenance Safety & Security Scam Prevention Verified Businesses

Dale Cardwell

Roof Roulette: How Storm Chasers Target Homeowners

It's one of the oldest scams to follow severe weather: storm-chasing roofers, who swoop in after a storm promising fast repairs, "free" roofs, and deals that sound too good to pass up.

Data Invasion: How Data Centers Affect Your Bills
Safety & Security Scam Prevention

Ki Corley

Data Invasion: How Data Centers Affect Your Bills

Data Centers use up enormous amounts of resources, but how do they impact the neighborhoods nearby?

Is That Inheritance Letter a Scam?
Safety & Security Scam Prevention

Dale Cardwell

Is That Inheritance Letter a Scam?

The FTC is warning consumers to be wary about letters telling them of an inheritance. It's a scam that counts on grief to cloud your judgment.

Hired or Hooked? Job Scams to Watch Out For
Safety & Security Scam Prevention

Ki Corley

Hired or Hooked? Job Scams to Watch Out For

In the wake of widespread unemployment, scammers are exploiting the people who suddenly and unexpectedly find themselves searching for a job.

The Shocking Truth About Dangerous Electrical Scams
Home Services Repair & Maintenance Safety & Security

Ki Corley

The Shocking Truth About Dangerous Electrical Scams

Consumer investigator Dale Cardwell shines a light on one of the most dangerous home service scams: unqualified electrical work.

Click the link below to download the latest edition of TrustDALE Home Magazine.

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Three for Thursday is a weekly email and Dale's Do's and Don'ts is a monthly newsletter from Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell. Each week in Three for Thursday you will see a video of one of our investigations, hear Dale answer real consumer questions and learn the steps to becoming a savvy consumer. Each month in Dale's Do's and Don'ts Dale provides information valuable to homeowners.

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