BBB Warns: Beware Of New Scams After West Texas Recent Flooding

In the wake of the recent heavy rains and flooding across the Big Country, and much of West and Central Texas, a new kind of danger has rolled in: scammers posing as foundation repair specialists. My good friend John Riggins, Executive Director of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in Abilene, called to give me a heads-up, and now I’m passing that information on to you.

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The Scam: Quick Talk, No Work

These scammers often go door-to-door or cold call homeowners, claiming your home may have foundation damage. They’ll offer to inspect or repair it and may ask for a large deposit upfront. Unfortunately, they take the money and disappear, leaving the job unfinished or never started at all.

Here’s just one heartbreaking example the Better Business Bureau received: A homeowner reported, “We paid $6,800 for 1/4 of the work written in the contract. We've contacted the 'foundation repair company' several times, and we keep getting no response."

What You Should Do First

Before giving anyone your hard-earned money, hire a licensed home inspector to determine if you even have foundation damage. A professional inspection costs about $250 and could save you thousands down the line.

Once you have a written inspection report:
Get 2 to 3 bids from local foundation repair contractors.
Ask each contractor to provide a quote based specifically on the inspector’s plan.
Never pay in full up front.

Do Your Homework with the BBB

The BBB can help you check if a contractor has positive reviews or unresolved complaints. All you need is the company’s name, phone number, and address. Visit www.bbb.org and search using the Abilene ZIP code or contact the local office directly.

Call the Abilene Better Business Bureau at (325) 691-1533 for help before you hire anyone.

I’ve seen this happen after nearly every hailstorm around West Texas, and now it’s happening again after flooding. Please don’t be rushed into anything. These scammers may look official, but they’re just after your money. Do the research. Get the facts. Protect your home and your wallet.