Crime & Safety

Police Caution Residents of Storm-Related Scams

Only hire contractors you trust or have a relationship with already.

In the wake of the weekend's wind and rain storm, the Westport Police Department cautions residents that door-to-door home repair fraud is prevalent in Connecticut.

Phony contractors may be soliciting storm clean-up or repair jobs, the department said in a news release Monday afternoon. Often, the consumer of such services is victimized by paying more than they expected or by paying for inadequate or incomplete services. Residents who are approached by workers offering "help" with clean-up or repair are urged to review the following tips for hiring contractors to repair storm damage or any work:

Residents are encouraged to:

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  1. Utilize contractors that they have a working relationship with
  2. Insist on a written contract that details the work to be done and payment terms
  3. Obtain the insurance and State license information of anyone performing work on your property.
  4. Do not provide your credit card information to an unknown party.
  5. Do not allow a high-pressured sales pitch to force you into making a decision you may later regret.
  6. If you do not have the knowledge to make informed decision reach out to a trusted family member, friend or neighbor to help you.

If you are approached at your home by a person claiming to be a contractor please obtain as much information as you can regarding their vehicle and them and contact the Westport Police Department.

For further information or to make a complaint against a contractor please contact the Connecticut Dept of Consumer Protection.

Find out what's happening in Westportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


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