Spooky Home Repair Scams

By: Rachel Roberts | Published On: October 31, 2023 | Categories: Certifications, Electrical, Maintenance, Plumbing, Roof

Halloween is upon us, and with that being said, it’s time to dive into the terrors of home repair scams!

Rogue Roofers

Turbulent winds and wild weather can oftentimes lead to roof damage, whether that be shingles being torn away, or punctures in the roof due to flying debris. Unless significant destruction occurs, the majority of the roof will typically stay intact, with minor repairs being needed to prevent further damage.

To have a firm understanding of whether or not your roof needs attention, it will need to be examined thoroughly by a professional. Do not fall prey to “roofers” who knock on your door after a storm, declaring you need to have them fix or replace your roof! Make sure that if you are going to have your roof inspected, you should have it done by a company with proper certifications.

Problematic Plumbers

Sometimes the worst comes to pass, and the toilets and drains back up or get clogged. Oftentimes minor issues, such as a single sink or toilet problem, can be a simple fix that doesn’t require tedious hours of work or expensive hardware replacements.

When calling in a plumber, make sure you know what certifications the company holds. When in doubt, do some research to ensure you have the right person on the job. If a small leak occurs or a single toilet gets clogged and yet you find yourself with a lengthy invoice, ask for the itemized list of parts. You want to double-check that you are not only receiving quality replacement materials but also that you are not being charged more for labor than you were expecting.

Shifty HVAC Specialists

Nobody wants to face the day that their HVAC unit gives out- whether that be in the middle of winter or the dead heat of summer. Attempting to formulate the fastest solution can be difficult in these trying times. Knowing the age of your unit is helpful in getting to the core of the problem, as most HVAC units need replacing every 15-20 years.

If you live in a newly constructed home or know the most recent date your unit was replaced, then you have a pretty good idea as to whether or not your HVAC unit is in its prime. Should it have trouble, a fix can typically be found without going to the extreme of replacing it altogether. Keep an eye out for unnecessary replacement parts, and ask to see any allegedly “broken” parts.

Know What You’re Paying For

If you have had an inspection with The BrickKicker, your report houses a full list of reputable, trustworthy, and professional contractors in the bottom section, giving you an easy reference point to local pros who can help you out in any situation. If you have not had an inspection, make sure you do some digging into the contractors you hire. We want your house to stay well-maintained just like you do! Don’t catch yourself in a wicked situation.