With spring approaching, people are starting home improvement projects.

The Better Business bureau is reminding homeowners to be wary of home improvement scams.

Lynda Pasacreta, BBB resident and CEO, says every year, homeowners are targeted by fly-by-night operators.

“The spring thaw can lead to unscrupulous and unqualified people showing up to your home with offers to do everything from landscaping to roofing. Some may offer to pave your driveway with leftover materials, or even remodel your home for a low price,“ says Pasacreta.

“What may seem like a great deal could end up emptying your pockets.”

She says complaints about contractors to the BBB concern many problems, including high-pressure sales tactics, confusion over contract terms, poor workmanship, incomplete job performance, and overcharging the agreed upon price.

Before you give any money to anyone or allow any contractors into your home, the BBB suggests:

Name and location. Get the name and address of the company the vendor claims to represent.

Put it in writing. Ensure all details and verbal promises are included in a contract. Review it and make sure that you understand everything in the document. Never sign a contract with sections left blank.

Check for qualifications. Verify the individual is licensed, bonded, insured and has registered with WorkSafeBC.

Price is not everything. Don’t always go for the lowest bid. If estimates for the same work vary widely, find out why. Sometimes unscrupulous operators may use sub-standard materials or take longer to finish the job.

Make cheques payable to the company. Do not pay in cash and do not make cheques payable to an individual, only the company.

Avoid "Bait and Switch" tactics. Some disreputable companies will offer low prices for installing items like windows and home siding, but then come back later to the client saying the item is currently out of stock and can only be replaced with a high-priced substitute. Have everything in writing and know the terms in advance.

Remember to cool off if there’s pressure. Do not be pressured by any person if you are unsure. Take the time to do your due diligence.

Link: Better Business Bureau website