Three for Thursday 03.05.2020
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
Hi everyone! It seems like everywhere we turn, we're hearing stories created by the Corona Virus concern. There will no doubt be many consumer issues to follow and we will do our best to not fan the flames but give you solid advice. Today's real consumer question just below this week's investigation is a perfect example.
Watch this Investigation
Bad roofers get a lot of attention because roofs are expensive, but so are back yard pools! As we edge closer to spring, watch Mary Fisher's story, because this could happen to you!
Ask Dale
Melissa wrote us with this question: "My daughter and three of her friends paid for a seven-day cruise. They also paid for excursions. While on the ship they were told their ports of call would not allow them to unload because of corona virus concerns. The cruise line then substituted the ports of call with destinations they did not want to visit. Can they get a refund? Here's the surprising answer.
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Never pay more than 15 percent of the cost of the pool in advance. It is appropriate to pay in installments during the course of the project.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? If not, it's likely too good to be true. Always get three estimates from reputable contractors and let them know they're competing for your business. Be leery of a quote that is more than 25% below the competing companies, that contractor might be cutting corners, so compare itemized estimates.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. When buying a pool, I strongly recommend you not only determine the location of the pool company but visit it personally to make certain it's there before you sign a contract.
Define - Your deal by comparing Products, Offers and Prices. Getting three quotes will protect your wallet but comparing itemized estimates will make certain you're getting the components you need. There are differences between fresh water and salt pools. Make sure your technician/salesperson explains what you're getting and why before you sign.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract and an Effective Guarantee. Make sure you understand your agreement and examine your rights in the event something goes wrong. Avoid signing a contract that requires mediation and arbitration. You need to preserve your right to take the contractor to court if the contract isn't satisfied.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking Reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. There may be no industry you need to check out more so than pool installation. As for 20 references, then call the three to five you choose.
Legitimize - Your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked.Ask for a copy of the company's liability insurance certificate, call the city or county clerk's office to validate their business license, and check the magistrate court website for lawsuits. This might feel like a lot of homework, but it's worth it if it helps you avoid what happened to Mary Fisher in this week's investigation.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS