Biggest storm in years wallops the North Coast, leaving 22,000 power customers in the dark; trees down; schools, college closed

12/15/2006 11:26:00 AM

Powerless
Biggest storm in years wallops the North Coast, leaving 22,000 power customers in the dark; trees down; schools, college closed

The Daily Astorian

State says: Beware of scam artists
The state Construction Contractors Board warns Oregon homeowners not to fall victim to thieves pretending to be legitimate contractors. Homeowners whose property is damaged from December's wind and rain storms are prime targets.

The CCB has the following advice:

• Be wary of door-to-door repair solicitations, contractors using vehicles with out-of-state license plates and "too-good-to-be-true" bids. Don't pay 100 percent of the bill before the repairs are properly completed.

• If roofs, windows, fences or patio coverings are damaged, or if you've got downed trees that should be removed, "Stay away from unlicensed contractors," says CCB Enforcement Manager Richard Blank. "Scam artists come out of the woodwork after severe weather to prey on people anxious to get their home fixed because more winter weather is on the way."

• Check with the CCB to make sure the contractor is properly licensed. A license offers some financial protection to consumers through the business' CCB bond and insurance. Consumers should verify a contractor's CCB license at (www.oregon.gov/CCB), or (503) 378-4621 before signing a home repair contract or paying any money.

The CCB is the state agency licensing more than 43,000 contractors. Anyone who is paid to repair, improve or build a home must be licensed by the CCB. Free consumer publications with helpful tips are available at the CCB's Web site and (503) 378-4621.

Full story: http://www.dailyastorian.info/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=398&ArticleID=38800&TM=8884.001