In a world where reliable service is critical to any type of success, it is also a source of great earnings. Also, as important as it is to make quality and timely decisions quickly and efficiently, it is just as important to check the source of information on the basis of which such decisions are made. And as general contractors in Los Angeles Country, we are here today to talk about ways to identify a fraudulent landscaping company. Let’s start.
What are ways to identify a fraudulent landscaping company?
There are several ways to identify a fraudulent landscaping company, and we will name just a few. First of all, you need to check if landscaping contractors Los Angeles are licensed. Then, reliability in the source of information depends on trust in the person who distributes the information. This is especially true for information that is distributed online as there is potential for large profits.
We are witnessing a time when there are numerous online platforms that offer various information. Several readers warned about the existence of companies that deal with this activity, and whose business is a lot of controversies. But how can you know what is true and which companies are fraudulent? Let us help.
Lack of referrals
If there are no referrals on the company’s website, or there are only a few, be careful. Also, if you see referrals that sound too good to be true, they probably are. We’re not saying that all construction companies in Orange County have fake-good reviews, but some of them just seem too mechanic.
Also, if you see that website is under construction or has absolutely no other digital trace, there is no other evidence of “accreditation” of this company. This is an example, at least of irresponsible, non-transparent, and unprofessional behavior of certain companies. Whether there is anything malicious or illegal in this behavior should be determined by the competent authorities.
Lack of identifying documents
When you want to hire a landscaping company, you will surely ask for some kind of documents that will prove your experience. If you see that they don’t have – or don’t want to provide documents you ask for, it’s time for an alarm. If you spot a business or offer that sounds like an illegal scheme or fraud, you can check it on Better Business Bureau.
Also, be alarmed if you can’t find the owner or where their documents come from. At the very least, it is strange that any platform hides who its real owner is, where its data comes from, and at the same time publishes data whose correctness cannot be verified in publicly available databases. Let us remind you, a company that operates in the LA area, must first of all gain the trust of its clients, and it can only do that in such a way that it will not hide… And that it will publish where its data comes from and how it processes it.
Don’t rely on companies you don’t know or you haven’t heard of
If someone recommends home remodeling contractor Los Angeles, to you, they probably had previous experience with them. But if you find a company that no one has ever heard of, that may be a red flag. Always double-check the company you are hiring.
As we mentioned, any landscaping company needs to have proper identifying documents, permits, and other types of paperwork that would ensure the legality of its operations. Any company worth their reputation will also have a portfolio on their hands at all times. If they’re proud of the work they do, they will probably show it somehow. Plus, somebody will need to hear about their accomplishments. If they are new on the market, they will at least give you access to all their verified documents.
Pressure from the landscaper
Keep an open eye on any pressure you may feel from the landscaper, especially ones that persuade you into spending more than you should. You may come across landscaping contractors who will point out the flaws in your lawn and those who will try to push you into opting for lawn improvements that you’d really don’t need.
Also, be prepared that you may get a “special offer” or “discounted price”, as these are all techniques that will make you spend more money. Think about the services you really need and only take what you really need. A genuine contractor will know that they are only limited to making suggestions and will not try to trick you.
Landscaper asks for cash upfront without signed paperwork
Paying upfront is fine – but not without signed paperwork. Fraudulent companies ask you to pay upfront with the excuse that they need to cover certain costs – without signing the agreement. They usually do it by not giving you time to think, so don’t rush with your decisions. Also, some companies offer to give you a “great deal” if you skip filling out the paperwork. This will leave you with no receipts or documentation. These are some of the tricks that scam contractors use to fool their customers. Of course, you need to use your common sense and pay only when you sign the agreement.
People who hire landscaping companies obviously have to be careful, and not blindly trust the internet. That’s why it’s always best to independently perform online fact-checking through channels available to you. Good luck!