Canton Police Target Contractor Fraud

CANTON, CT — The Canton Police Department this week has declared war on contractor fraud, issuing several tips folks can do to avoid it.

"Contractor fraud happens, don’t let it happen to you. If you didn't request it, reject it," wrote the CPD.

The department gave some tips from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) to follow. Among them are:

• Get more than one estimate and get everything in writing.

• Ask to see the salespersons/contractors credentials, write down their license number and their insurance information.

• Never sign a contract with blanks; unacceptable terms could possibly be added later.

• Make sure you review and understand all documents sent to your insurance carrier.

• Ask for references and check them out.

• Never pay a contractor in full or sign a completion certificate until the work is finished and ensure reconstruction is up to current code.

To report suspected fraud, contact the Canton Police Department at 860-693-0221. Victims can also file a report with the NICB, by calling 1-800-TEL-NICB (835-6422) or by visiting: www.NICB.org/ReportFraud.