MICHIGAN, USA — Michigan's Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a warning to Michigan residents to be aware of home air duct cleaning scams.
Her warning stated that residents should "be aware of fraudsters waiting to take advantage of them using deceptive practices."
The warning explains that some fraudulent companies will launch pop-up ads online, especially in groups on social media. The ads suggest that someone in your neighborhood has used the company's services. However, this is sometimes a lie used to hook unsuspecting homeowners.
Nessel's warning read that these deceitful air duct cleaning companies are often referred to as "blow-and-go" establishments. These kinds of companies will attract customers by offering low prices. Then, they will add on unnecessary services such as costly repairs or mold removal. These added services will rack up the overall cost to be much more than the original quote.
Some of these companies, according to Nessel, will do an inferior job if they even complete the work, often leaving the homeowner worse off than before. They'll sometimes leave dirt and contaminants blown from their HVAC systems onto drapes, carpets and furniture.
“Everyone wants to ensure that their home is healthy and safe for their family,” Nessel said. “However, it’s important to verify that you are dealing with an honest, reputable company in all home maintenance matters. Beware of predatory business practices and research potential service providers before paying or signing a contract.”
Amplifying the tips provided by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), Nessel says red flags you should watch out for are social media posts that:
- Say what they’re offering is not a scam; if they have to say it’s not a scam, it’s likely a scam;
- Provide no company name; legitimate businesses will want to showcase the company and its services;
- Provide generic company names like “Duct Cleaners Michigan”; these companies are impossible to find on Google because they are sometimes not legitimate businesses;
- Have a relatively new social media account whose name does not match the user name in the URL; and
- Have a social media account that is locked so that no posts, followers, or pictures can be seen.
If you'd like more information about other home improvement scams you can find that here.
Michigan consumers who suspect they are the victims of illegal or predatory business practices are encouraged to contact the Department of Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team at 517-241-3771 or you can fill out an online complaint form.
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