Successful scam artists are some of the best actors in town. They are equipped with the props and costumes that a legitimate company would have, and their performance is very convincing. Thousands of homeowners fall victim to their act, and end up handing over hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars for services that are illegitimate. The furnace repair industry has its fair share of fraudsters just like any other, but when homeowners know how to protect themselves from their scams, they lose their ability turn a profit. That is why we should all take note of these 3 common furnace repair scams before we have our furnaces serviced this winter season.
- Scam #1: Demanding Upfront Payment- A common scam that many illegitimate contractors will use involves convincing the homeowner to pay in full for services before they are performed. The serviceman may tell you that he needs a certain amount of money right when he walks in the door, and then after tinkering around with the furnace, demand payment for repairs before actually fixing anything. Once payment is received, the serviceman will pretend that they have to order a part or come back later to finish the work. After the serviceman leaves, he is never heard from again. Read more
