Tips to Avoid Fraud by Building Contractors

Some of these tips were published in the Herald-Tribune on Sunday, May 13, 2007

These issues will be of no concern to you when dealing with Premier Communities Inc. and The Villas of Turnberry Trace.

• Avoid offers that seem too good to refuse
• Ask to see the contractor's license; all state-issued licenses come with a card
• Verify a contractor's license by contacting the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at (850) 487-1395 or www.MyFloridaLicense.com
• Check with local building supply companies about the contractor's reputation or ask the contractor for references and CHECK them
• Ask for some past customer references
• Read your contract carefully
• Ensure that there are no blank spaces on the contract before signing
• Do not pay in cash
• Do not sign a completion certificate until all work has been done to your satisfaction