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Health & Fitness

When it Comes to Sandy Relief, Beware of Bad Contractors

Avoid Sandy Scams

  Assemblyman Steve Katz (R,C,I-Yorktown) expressed concern about contracting scams today and urged residents to exercise caution. Katz issued this statement today as funding for Superstorm Sandy relief continues to trickle into the lower Hudson Valley.   

 

"About $3 million of the promised Sandy relief aid has hit the lower Hudson Valley, and those looking to scam the victims of this natural disaster are well aware of this," said Katz.  "I encourage residents to seek out reputable, local contractors with a track record of providing quality service. Please do extensive research on the contracting company you hire to perform the necessary repairs to your home. There are always people seeking to take advantage of other people's misfortune, so please exercise caution."

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A few tips to avoid home improvement scams recommended by the state Division of Consumer Protection include:

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  • Avoiding contractors who only have a P.O. Box and cell phone as means of contact;
  • Avoiding contractors who cannot provide proof of insurance; and
  • Avoiding contractors who cannot provide references or those who provide references that cannot be reached.

 

If you are a victim of a contracting scam, please contact the Division of Consumer Protection at 1-800-697-1220 or online at www.dos.ny.gov. For more information, please contact the district office of Assemblyman Steve Katz at 845-628-3781.  The assemblyman can also be reached via e-mail at katzs@assembly.state.ny.us

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