Howard County Police Advise Homeowners To Look Out For Warmer Weather Scams

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — The warm weather brings everyone out of hibernation—including scammers. Reports of scams and deception burglaries typically increase during spring and summer months. Residents should use the following tips from the Howard County Police Department to avoid being victimized and share this information with senior citizens in particular who are often targeted for scams.

Warm weather scammers often will take your money and do shoddy work, or never do the work at all, or may pose as utility workers.

According to the Howard County Police Department, the common types of scams include:

• Driveway paving and resealing
• Tree trimming and removal
• Utility service for gas or water problems
• Roof repairs or inspection

Sometimes criminals will distract a person. One scammer keeps an individual occupied while the other sneaks into the house. So if someone seems eager to look inside your home or seems to be trying to distract you, close and lock the door and call 911. Non-emergency solicitor complaints should be directed to 410-313-2200.

If you need work done in your home, follow these tips from the police department:

• Request references from prospective contractors
• Be suspicious of unsolicited offers and services
• Don't feel pressured to decide on the spot
• Ask to see contractors’ required license
• Always obtain a written contract for the work
• Don't share personal or financial information with prospective contractors
• Verify the phone number and physical location of the business before agreeing to any work
• Jot down the license plate of the company vehicle, just in case

While some reputable companies do offer their services door-to-door, they are required to possess a Howard County peddler and solicitor card. Residents should request to see this ID in addition to a company ID, the department noted.

To report an unregistered salesperson or get more information about shopping for home improvement services, contact the Howard County Office of Consumer Protection by phone at 410-313-6420 or by e-mail at consumer@howardcountymd.gov.

Contractors and landscapers must be registered through Maryland state agencies. Ask for their license numbers and verify through the Maryland Department of License and Regulation using their licensing queries function at http://www.dllr.state.md.us/pq/.