Be Cautious When Hiring Snow Removal Services, Warns Better Business Bureau
If you’re considering hiring a snow removal company, there are reputable options available. However, it’s crucial to be vigilant to avoid potential scams.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has issued an alert highlighting the importance of being cautious and alert to unethical business practices when engaging with snow removal companies. In fact, a previous alert from 2018 resulted in criminal charges being filed against a company. To protect yourself, the BBB recommends following these guidelines when selecting a snow removal service:
- Get multiple estimates. It’s advised to obtain at least three quotes to ensure you’re not being taken advantage of.
- Request a breakdown of all costs upfront to prevent unexpected charges.
- Thoroughly review the contract for hidden fees such as extra charges or cancellation fees.
- Clarify the scheduling details before finalizing any agreements.
- For seasonal contracts, consider dividing the payment into several installments. Be cautious if a company demands full upfront payment for the entire season.
- Research the company’s reputation with the BBB. If there have been previous reports or complaints, it’s best to steer clear of that company.
If you’ve been a victim of fraud or deceptive practices by a snow removal service, you can report the incident to the BBB for inclusion in their scam tracker. Alternatively, reaching out to the Federal Trade Commission can also be beneficial. By reporting dubious snow removal services to the relevant authorities and organizations, you can help prevent others from falling prey to scams.
