Tips for avoiding home improvement scams | News [Video]

TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) – Home improvement scams continue to happen yearly. 

Roofing, painting, and paving are the jobs associated with the highest number of scams, according to Kenneth Estes, the President of Estes Building and Remodeling.

Experts say there are several red flags you should watch out for before hiring a contractor.

A big red flag is not being properly licensed for the type or scope of work needed for the project.

“Any work over $10,000 labor materials requires a license for remodel work. If it’s new construction you cannot build a home without a license for sale. So you have to make sure those folks have a license,” Estes said.

Other things to remember:

• Don’t provide a full payment upfront.
• Don’t pay them in cash.
• Get a written contract that details every aspect of the work plan.