“Better Business Bureau Launches Nonprofit ‘Your Home HQ’ to Educate Consumers on Household Scams”

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has taken a proactive step in protecting consumers from common household scams by launching a new nonprofit called “Your Home HQ.” This initiative aims to educate homeowners on the various tactics scammers use to exploit them and steal their hard-earned money.

According to Dennis Horton, director of the bureau’s regional office, scammers often target homeowners when they need to buy products, hire services, or install items throughout the year. The BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report for 2023 revealed that home improvement scams were the riskiest for consumers aged 55 and older, but with the aging population, all age groups, including Millennials, are now being impacted.

Some of the common scams that homeowners fall victim to include security system services and home maintenance frauds. Scammers may falsely claim that their alarm provider is out of business or offer fake upgrades to deceive unsuspecting homeowners. In driveway paving scams, contractors may offer discounts with leftover materials, demand large upfront payments, and then disappear without completing the work.

To protect themselves from falling prey to these scams, homeowners are advised to get multiple estimates, check BBB ratings, and thoroughly research companies before hiring them. The bureau also provides valuable advice on preventing scams, such as getting multiple estimates, asking for credentials, signing a written contract, taking your time with decisions, trusting your instincts, and being safe with payments.

For more information on how to prevent scams and stay informed, homeowners can sign up for the bureau’s free consumer newsletter at BBB.org/ChicagoBuzz. If a scam is spotted, it can be reported to BBB.org/ScamTracker. To stay updated on the latest consumer protection tips, visit BBB.org or follow @ChicagoBBB on social media. With “Your Home HQ” in place, homeowners can now arm themselves with the knowledge and resources needed to avoid falling victim to common household scams.