Sheriff Knight Warns Residents of Home Repair Scams

NEWS RELEASE 17-206 - SEPTEMBER 12, 2017

Home Repair Scam Warning

 

The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is reminding citizens in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, to be aware of unlicensed contractors and other service providers trying to take advantage of residents who experienced property damage.  

While clean-up efforts continue throughout Sarasota County, many residents are seeking services which might include roof repair, tree removal or electrical maintenance. This is a time when unlicensed contractors and illegitimate handymen around Florida and from out of state, will offer their services in an attempt to scam those impacted by the hurricane.  

"This is a good opportunity following Hurricane Irma, to remind consumers to always seek legitimate service providers to perform work on their homes or businesses,” said Sheriff Knight. “When hiring an individual to repair damages, residents MUST verify their contractor is legitimate before allowing any work to be done on their property. Unfortunately, service providers might target the elderly or other vulnerable people who aren’t knowledgeable of repair work and associated costs.”   

To check a Sarasota County license or report someone you suspect is acting as an unlicensed contractor or performing work without a permit, call 861-5214 or 861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net/contractors