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Consumer
Advisories
Tree-Trim
Tips: Consumer Tips for Iowans with Storm-Damaged Trees
Following
is a bulletin from Attorney General Tom Miller with tips for
Iowans coping with storm-related tree damage who are hiring
contractors for clean-up and removal:
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The
main problems we have seen in the past:
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Contractors taking
payment and doing little or no work -- especially by persons
from out of town.
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Contractors starting
a job but quitting in midstream because it's too difficult
(and perhaps taking money.)
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Contractors promising
to take branches away "for the firewood" but only
taking big pieces and leaving a mess.
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Contractors putting
pressure especially on older Iowans, especially by out-of-state
persons.
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The
main consumer tips to follow:
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NEVER
PAY IN ADVANCE. This is a recipe for being cheated by a
total scam artist, or even by a local person who doesn't
finish the job.
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If
at all possible, deal with an established and reputable
local business. Try to deal with local outfit even if it's
not an established contractor.
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Be
sure to have a clear understanding of the price, the job
to be done, and when.
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Best
to have written contract.
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Good
to have written estimate.
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Crucial
to have full agreement on the job to be done (including
clean-up.)
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Get
professional if job is risky to workers or your property.
May be very important that they are insured.
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COMPLAIN
TO ATTORNEY GENERAL OR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT if you have
been cheated. (Consumer Protection Division: 515-281-5926.)
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Note
that "price-gouging" is by rule an "unfair
practice" and consumer fraud violation during disasters.
Contact the Attorney General's Office.
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Volunteer
to help older neighbors as they deal with contractors (and
be sure they aren't intimidated into paying for work that
was not done.)
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