Three for Thursday 06.10.2021
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
It's been said that character is what you do when no one is looking... Here's a shout-out to Paul Letalian of Archer Restoration, and Robbie Boyd of Ben Hill Renovations. I recently asked these two companies to help an elderly widow who had been ripped-off by a non-TrustDALE certified contractor. Without hesitation, both said "yes" without hesitation. Here's my point. If TrustDALE companies provide consumers who didn't hire them - free or reduced cost services because they care, not because they are seeking or receiving credit, what should you expect when you hire them? A great product or a service at a fair price. I don't think there's any greater proof of character than that.
Watch this Investigation
"White Van Speaker Scam." Watch what happens when people get approached at a gas station and offered a great deal on stereo equipment. Watch, because This Could Happen to You!
Ask Dale
Today's Real Consumer Question is from Sterling, who wants to know if a home builder can cancel a contract simply because the new owner doesn't want to use the builder's preferred lender. The answer may surprise you!
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson is how to recognize signs your about to hire a shady contractor.
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Contractors that want payment above fifty percent in advance present a waving red flag.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? Handshake agreements often turn in to intentional unaccountability.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. Beware the contractor who works out of a truck with only a cell phone.
Define - Your deal by comparing Product, Offer and Price. Contractors who discourage you from comparing, or don't give you enough information for comparison are dangerous.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract, and an Effective Guarantee. If your contract is unclear, and your guarantee vague, you may be working with a shady contractor.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. Shady contractors who have little or no reviews are likely changing company names as they scorch customers.
Legitimize - your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. I like to hire companies that have been in business at least five years under the same name. They have established track records, good or bad and you can discover them.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS