UPDATE WARNING - January 21, 1999 Warning to Homeowners and Businesses The Arizona Registrar of Contractors has received information and reports from victims pertaining to traveler activity in the Kingman and Prescott area. The travelers and other unlicensed contractors have recently targeted and solicited residents of Kingman and surrounding areas and have performed bogus and inferior construction services at inflated prices. According to the preliminary reports, asphalt paving and repair of driveways and parking lots have been the most recent crimes reported. Business owners and homeowners have lost thousands of dollars in bogus repairs. In one of the reported cases, the owner stated that the crew of 5 -6 men were intimidating and he felt threatened to pay them or face possible consequences. As it turned out, the perpetrators attempted to extort $10,000.00 for a shoddy repair job on a parking lot, however, finally accepted $1000.00 and left the premises. Members of the travelers organization target the elderly, promise quality workmanship and possibly a 20 year written guarantee, however, the final results usually prove to be inferior construction services at increased costs for the consumers. Although the travelers and other similar groups offer to provide a variety of home improvement services, the most notable trades include painting, roofing and asphalt paving services. The method of operation is the door-to-door solicitation, usually offering low costs utilizing "so called left over materials." Consumer tips:
If you believe you may have been scammed, contact the Registrar of Contractors Phoenix Office at (602) 542-1525 and / or your local law enforcement agency. Also available is a Tips Hotline if you believe an individual or company is contracting or advertising in violation of state statute. |