Three for Thursday 01.07.2021
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
When I was a child, I hated when I didn't get my way. As I matured, I discovered I had to go by the rules even when the rules didn't seem fair, much less favor me. My parents taught me that if I didn't like the way things were, I could pray about it and find likeminded people who I could peaceably work with to create the change we felt necessary. For centuries, our system has worked because we, as Americans respected the rule of law and, as distasteful as it was, allow those who were elected to have their fair shot at leading. This is NOT a political statement. This is a request from a fellow American to please help me set an example for my children and grandchildren. Love your neighbor as yourself.
Watch this Investigation
Consumer Investigation = The dangers of hiring a company that takes from Peter to pay Paul. Watch, because This Could Happen to you!
Ask Dale
Today's Real Consumer Question is from Sara. "Dale, I wanted a window converted to an entry door. One of your TrustDALE handyman contractors advised that in this case, I need a General Contractor. Why?"
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson on avoiding mistakes : For those of you who have been following Three for Thursday, you know I apply a real life situation to my seven point process. From now on, I'm going to tell a brief story and identify which of the seven standards are relevant and can protect us all.
Deck dispute. Erik hired a company he thought would build his deck correctly. His criteria? He found out they were headquartered in his hometown. Now, he's discovered the contractor doesn't really build decks, didn't follow code requirements - and now, doesn't want to refund any of the money he paid in advance. Where did Erik go wrong?
Fast - Do they want your money NOW?
Funds - - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? If not, it's likely too good to be true.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money.
Define - Your deal by comparing Product, Offer and Price.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract and an Effective Guarantee. This is where Erik went wrong. His agreement doesn't require his project to pass a code inspection. He will likely prevail in court because his agreement provides a guarantee on materials and workmanship.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking Reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports.
Legitimize - your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS