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Protecting Yourself from Contractor Fraud

Since Katrina, contractor fraud has been a serious problem in New Orleans.  To protect yourself from fraud, take the following precautions:

  • Be very hesitant about giving money up front.
  • Create a written contract that states every task that the contractor will complete.
  • Ask for proof of insurance.  The best way to do this is to ask for a certificate of general liability insurance with the homeowner’s name listed as a certificate holder.  With this document, the insurance company will contact the homeowner if the contractor cancels his policy.
  • Check the contractor’s references.  You can also go to the Better Business Bureau website to see if any complaints have been filed against them:  www.neworleans.bbb.org
  • Keep all receipts for anything related to the contractor’s work.



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