Three for Thursday 04.09.2020
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
Happy Thursday everyone! I must start off by tipping my hat to not only our community of consumers - but our community of contractors and service providers (who are also consumers). We continue to buy and sell from one another in these unusual times. Our certified companies are taking the necessary steps to protect their employees and their customers, and their customers are getting things done around the home and more! I'm impressed. Let's keep it up!
Watch this Investigation
No one, I mean NO ONE expects to get ripped off by their dentist! The truth is, the dental business is just that; a business. Sometimes those businesses run out of cash. Watch, because This Could Happen to You!
Ask Dale
From Gloria: I hired a contractor to build a patio porch. I gave him half the money up front and he hasn't started the job. What can I do?
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson on hiring and/or inviting a contractor to my home during the virus:
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? You may be tempted to hire someone who is available NOW - if you pay them up front. This is never a good practice. Don't start now.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? If not, it's likely too good to be true. The internet and your phone are bursting with too good to be true offers. Don't bite! If it sounds too good to be true, it is.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. There's never been a more important time to make certain through a Google earth and even drive by search that the company you're dealing with has an office or discoverable base of operation.
Define - Your deal by comparing Products, Offers and Prices. It's tempting to take a cheaper offer from a less professional vendor - who might be moonlighting from their day job. Ask them - before you hire them what they will do to keep your family face if they come to your home.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract and an Effective Guarantee. This is no time to cut corners just to get something done. Most reputable home service businesses are conducting business. You might need to be a bit more patient, but the wait is worth the peace of mind.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking Reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. This step never loses its importance. NEVER
Legitimize - Your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. The current environment encourages con artists to pretend to be a company they're not or fake credentials. Follow the seven steps above and you'll eliminate 99% of the pitfalls that come in tough economic times.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS