Contractors warn of scam artists

By Stephanie Kishi

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 | 6:11 a.m.

The Nevada State Contractors Board is warning homeowners to beware of spring and summer scam artists offering so-called "good deals" on home repair.

Homeowners, especially seniors, are often targeted by door-to-door scam artists who claim they are in the neighborhood and can give the homeowner a discount on services like air conditioning, roof repair, painting, remodeling, driveway sealing, patio coverings and landscape. Often times, these scam artists also ask for money up front.

Using an unlicensed contractor may result in poor quality, and because most contractors are uninsured and may not maintain workers compensation for their employees, homeowners may also be responsible for any injuries on the job. Any contract made with an unlicensed contractor is by law null and void, and homeowners are not eligible for the Residential Recovery Fund.

The board has encouraged homeowners to look at the contractor's five digit license number, issued by the NSCB, and to contact the Contractors Board or go online to nscb.state.nv.us . There homeowners can find out whether or not the contractor is in good standing.

The board also advises to only hire license contractors, keep a record of all payments and paperwork, draw up a written contract but don't sign until every term is understood.

For more tips on how to avoid being scammed, visit the NSCB at nscb.state.nv.us, or call the Southern Nevada office at 702-486-1100 or the northern office at 702-688-1141.