Duct cleaning services are one of the most popular ways remove harmful contaminants from the air in our homes. Those of us that have allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems rely on services like these to offer some relief from the symptoms of these illnesses. As a result, scam artists have latched onto this industry, and use it as a way to manipulate hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars out of the hands of unsuspecting customers. Senior citizens are among the most vulnerable people in our society, and they have become the perfect target for illegitimate duct cleaning companies.
Illinois Prosecutes a Dishonest Duct Cleaner
Illinois has laws in place to protect homeowners from these deceptive companies, and has created special programs to help safeguard senior citizens and their wallets. Yet, these scams are still occurring all across Illinois and our nation. The Attorney General Lisa Madigan has just recently filed charges against yet another duct cleaning company that used deceptive tactics to steal hundreds of dollars from unsuspecting senior citizens.
In the suit, it is stated that the company in question would advertise an extremely low price, and once they were in the customer’s home, they would convince the homeowner that there was mold in the duct work. The price for the cleaning would suddenly be hundreds of dollars higher than advertized because of the supposed presence of mold.
Fictitious Mold
The representative from that company would show the homeowner pictures of the mold in their duct work, but in reality, these pictures weren’t even taken in their home. The consumers didn’t realize that they were scammed until after the duct cleaners left and they got a good look at the work they thought they had just paid for. Once they noticed that their ducts were still filthy, they sought help from the state.
Protect Yourself and Your Neighborhood
If these seniors are lucky, they will see their money returned, but many homeowners that fall prey to this scam lose their money for good. If you cannot afford to lose hundreds of dollars, make sure you do your research before you hire a duct cleaning company.
Check references and don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you are told there is mold in the home. If you know any of the senior citizens in your neighborhood, make sure that they are informed about scam prevention, so that they too can be safe from the dishonesty of these illegitimate duct cleaning companies.
