The object of any con game is to entice an unsuspecting person to part with their money or other items of value. Most con games are initiated by people who approach potential victims on the street or call them on the phone.
You should be suspicious of ANY plan, idea, scheme, business deal, or any proposition that requires you to provide your money, credit card or other financial information especially on short notice. The following tips are intended to improve your chances of not being a con artist’s next victim:
REALIZE con or scam artists are professionals – everyone is a potential victim.
SUSPECT all “Get Rich Fast” schemes.
ALWAYS LOCK YOUR DOORS when doing yard work, getting the mail, or anytime you go outside – both the front and back doors (even in a condo setting like Century Village).
NEVER allow strangers inside your home or apartment.
ASK “officials” to produce identification, and confirm their alleged employment.
CONTACT the utility company by telephone if any purported employee wants to enter your home, or requests you to go outside with him/her, unless you initiated a call for them to come to take care of a problem.
BE WARY of any unexpected contact with strangers (in person or on the telephone).
SUSPECT all “Door to Door” sales solicitations (even in a condo setting like Century Village).
BEWARE of unsolicited home repairmen. If you need the services of a home repairman, check first with the county, city building officials, the Better Business Bureau to confirm they are legitimate. Be suspicious of anyone knocking at your door asking to make repairs to your home or apartment.
CHECK the Better Business Bureau to see if complaints have been filed against the person or business you are considering.
ASK for multiple references and then call them.
GET several repair estimates and compare prices.
TALK with a trusted friend or relative before making major money decisions.
BE SUSPICIOUS of high-pressure sales tactics, rarely does an offer end that day.
REMEMBER, you have three days to cancel a contract for home repairs if you signed the contract at your home.
NEVER sign any contract or agreement without carefully checking it, especially the fine print.
NEVER pay up front for a service to be provided or completed later.
BE SURE the work is completed to your satisfaction before you make final payment.
IF A PERMIT is required for the work to be done, be sure the permit has been properly ‘pulled’ and never pay a final balance unless the final inspection is done and approved by the city.
REQUIRE a guarantee on the work, in writing.
NEVER rely upon verbal assurances, get it in writing on their letter head and have the salesman sign it. Ask for his driver’s license and take down all the information on it, or copy it if you have a copier.
BE SURE you understand and agree to all provisions in a contract or agreement.
In the event that you need any legal advice or guidance or are involved in an auto accident, which is my specialty, I urge you to call my office to discuss any of these matters with me. My Pembroke Pines office is conveniently located to serve all of South Florida. It is located at 9000 Sheridan Street, Pembroke Pines, Florida, by appointment only. My office phone number is (954) 441-5077, or I can be reached on my cell phone (954) 801-0352. Appointments at any hospital or at your home can be arranged.