Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel wants Michigan residents to be aware of home air duct cleaning companies that are perpetuating scams in Michigan. Michigan residents should be aware of fraudsters waiting to take advantage of them using deceptive practices.
Some fraudulent companies will launch pop-up ads on social media groups and neighborhood platforms suggesting someone in their neighborhood has used its services. But this is sometimes a lie to hook unsuspecting homeowners. Deceitful air duct cleaning companies, referred to as “blow-and-go” establishments, lure consumers in with rock bottom prices, then add on unnecessary services like costly repairs or mold-removal that cost a great deal more than the initially quoted price. Some of these companies, if they complete the work, do an inferior job or leave the consumer worse off than before, with 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.
• Have a social media account that is locked so that no posts, followers, or pictures can be seen.
For information about other home improvement scams, residents can review the Department’s Building and Remodeling Advice for Homeowners alert at www.michigan.gov/consumerprotection/protect-yourself/consumer-alerts/home-health/building-and-remodeling-advice-for-homeowners.
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:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone; 517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form at https://secure.ag.state.mi.us/complaints/consumer.aspx.
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