NORTHWEST WISCONSIN – This winter has definitely been one for the record books here in the northwest part of the state. We experienced a near-record amount of snow in December and January, just to be followed by temperatures that dipped to around 20 below zero over the last week or so. While temperatures have become milder in recent days, when major snow and ice impact an area like we have seen, it’s not uncommon for problematic companies to capitalize on the situation.
We recently had the chance to speak with Lisa Schiller, who handles media relations for the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau. She says, “Historically, out-of-state contractors will solicit in areas that receive significant storm damage and increase marketing for snow removal and snow damage repair services by soliciting door-to-door and by targeting advertising on social media and websites, such as Craigslist.”
Schiller added, “As ice dams build on roofs due to an abundance of snow, water damage may result due to melting snow being prevented from draining properly. While it is not unusual for contractors from various construction-related industries to offer assistance in mitigating ice dams and winter storm repair, it is important to do your research and hire companies you can trust.”
Professionals point out that when attempting to make winter storm repairs or remove snow and ice from a roof, your safety is most important. If you are unable to make repairs on your own or remove snow and ice from a roof in a safe manner, BBB can help by providing a list of businesses that specialize in the type of repairs needed or provide ice and snow removal services. Companies that obtain the seal of BBB accreditation have been found to meet and abide by BBB standards regarding maintaining a positive track record in the marketplace.
Schiller provided us with a list of tips when hiring a snow removal contractor. Those include the following:
• There is a wide range of fees being charged for ice and snow removal. Make sure to ask questions. Is the hourly fee per job or per worker? Does it include the removal of snow from driveways and walks? Some companies charge a "flat fee," plus an hourly fee just to go to your home; ask what is included in the "flat fee." Obtain all of this information in the form of a written contract and avoid paying the full fee in advance.
• Does a municipality require the contractor to have a permit or license? Before you hire anyone, make some calls to find out and then check to make sure the contractor is appropriately covered.
• Make sure that the company has current liability and workers' compensation insurance.
• Check the contractor's vehicle. See if it has signs or markings on it with the business name, phone number and license plates for your state.
• Check to see if a contractor is registered by checking with the attorney general.
• Expect that a contractor may not be able to provide immediate service, especially during an unexpected major snowfall. Many contractors are receiving a lot of
calls and can't set up appointments for several days.
• Understand that there is no guarantee that the problem won't happen again. Many contractors are having customers sign waivers stating that they aren't
responsible for damage incurred by their ice and snow removal and there is no guarantee against future ice buildup.
• Be careful of contractors soliciting door-to-door. Ask for proof of the company's reliability; how long the company has been in business; a business card and physical contract with the name, address, and phone number of the company, references; and contact your BBB to see if the company has a business profile.
• Contractors should supply the homeowner with an estimate for repairs caused by damage. It's generally recommended to obtain at least three estimates. Some contractors may tell you that you don't need to see an estimate and that they'll send it directly to your insurance company. Insist that you get a copy.
Schiller also wanted us to share the BBB’s Winter Storm Resource website, which is available for free to everyone at bbb.org/all/natural-disasters/winter-storms.
