AARP advising community to be on alert for fake contractors

HONOLULU (KHON2) — An expert with the AARP said contractor fraud is common after disasters like the Maui wildfires.

As the community begins to rebuild the devastated Lahaina, Paul Greenwood advises the public on what warning signs to be on high alert for.

Greenwood said one of the biggest warning sign is high pressure sales tactics, which could include offers of a discount and promises to finish the job quickly and even fake home tests.

He also added the community needs to be looking out for one another as well.

“People need to be vigilant for one another so if we see a roofer working on a neighbors roof lets go over and make sure the neighbor is comfortable happy w the work and if not say something the worst thing we can do is stay silent and feel embarrassed”

Paul Greenwood, AARP

Some tips to fight back include:

• Get three quotes
• Check Out contractors with the Better Business Bureau
• Check their contractor’s license with the Contractor’s License Board
• Get a copy of their license
• Get the license plate of any vehicles on the job
• Always pay by check or credit card
• Never pay by cash
• Photograph every step of the construction
• Don’t pay more than you need to for each step of the work

“They (fraudulent contractors) will try any which method to persuade you that they are the right guy including senior discounts and fake home tests that claim to show leaks or termite activity” Greenwood said. “I prosecuted a guy who put flyers on the windshields of cars in church parking lots hoping to gain parishioner’s trust.”

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For more tips on fighting fraud, visit the AARP Fraud Watch Network website.