As temperatures rise and home repair projects increase, the Nevada State Contractors Board is urging homeowners to be cautious of unlicensed people offering services, particularly those making unsolicited visits to homes.
The Board said senior citizens can be especially vulnerable to scams involving door-to-door salespeople and others advertising construction-related services without a license. Homeowners are encouraged to verify credentials and carefully review bids before hiring someone to perform work around the home.
The warning comes as many people prepare air conditioning systems for the summer months. The Board recommends scheduling regular preventative maintenance to reduce the chances of major repairs or full unit replacements during periods of extreme heat.
When repairs are needed, homeowners are encouraged to seek multiple opinions before signing a contract, especially if a contractor recommends a new or larger air conditioning unit. Obtaining several bids can help people better understand the scope of work needed and determine whether the price being offered is reasonable.
The Nevada State Contractors Board also reminded residents that it is a free public resource available to help with hiring contractors, filing complaints, and answering construction-related questions.
The Board identified several warning signs homeowners should watch for, including door-to-door solicitors offering free home inspections or estimates, people claiming to have extra materials available for immediate work at a discounted price, requests for cash-only payments, aggressive sales tactics, and company information that does not match the Board's licensing records.
To help avoid scams, the Board recommends always asking for a contractor's license number and verifying it through the Board's website, mobile application, or by contacting its office at (775) 688-1141. Homeowners should also confirm that contact information provided by a contractor matches the information listed in the Board's records and contact the licensed company directly if there are any discrepancies.
The Board also encourages homeowners to obtain at least three bids before selecting a contractor, carefully compare services included in each proposal, and remember that the lowest bid is not always the best option. Residents are advised never to pay in cash and to make checks payable only to the licensed company performing the work.
