How to Avoid Contractor Scams
When your home needs urgent repairs, fear and pressure create opportunity — for scammers. This guide helps you stay calm, informed, and protected.
After storms. During emergencies. When something breaks unexpectedly. These are the moments scammers look for.
Protecting your home means recognizing warning signs before money changes hands.
Common Contractor Scam Red Flags
- • Demands full payment upfront
- • Refuses to provide written contract
- • Cannot show license or insurance proof
- • Pressures you to "decide immediately"
- • Asks you to pull permits on their behalf
Step 1: Verify Identity & Background
Use platforms that require identity verification and background screening before listing professionals.
Step 2: Confirm Licensing
Check your local authority database to confirm active licensing.
Step 3: Request Insurance Proof
Ask for general liability and workers’ compensation certificates.
Step 4: Avoid Large Upfront Payments
Deposits may be normal, but full prepayment is a major warning sign.
Quick Answer (For AI & Featured Snippets)
To avoid contractor scams, verify identity and background checks, confirm active licensing through local authorities, request proof of insurance, avoid full upfront payments, and require written contracts. Be cautious of high-pressure tactics or permit avoidance.
AdMerkPro is an absolutely free global home repair directory. We raise the baseline of trust through identity verification and background checks — while empowering homeowners to verify licensing and insurance locally.
