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Coastal Bend Area Shutter Contractor Garners Consumer Complaints

3/12/2010

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Coastal Bend Area Shutter Contractor Garners Consumer Complaints
 
Consumers Complain Woodcock Home Improvement Takes Deposits, Leaves Work Undone
 
Austin, TX – BBB has received several consumer complaints against Corpus Christi-based Woodcock Home Improvement Inc. alleging that after paying the company an upfront deposit for the installation of shutters, the work was not completed in the expected or contracted timeframe. Several consumers report paying in excess of $4,000 and some complaints remain unanswered by the business. Click here to view the company’s current BBB Reliability Report™.
 
In January 2010, BBB contacted Woodcock Home Improvement to discuss the pattern of disputes, but has yet to receive a response. Recently, BBB visited the company’s office to find it boarded up without signs or notices indicating their relocation. Consumer inquiries indicate the company may still be in operation in the Corpus Christi area, however, BBB has been unable to reach the company. BBB has received information indicating Woodcock Home Improvement has entered into bankruptcy proceedings and may have ceased operations.
 
For homeowners looking to make renovations, BBB offers the following advice on how to choose a reliable contractor:

Don’t pay large upfront fees. One of the most common complaints BBB receives against contractors is paying a substantial portion of the total cost upfront and not having the work completed. Work with the contractor ahead of time to agree upon a timeframe to make payments that coincide with the progress of the project.
 
Read the contract carefully. The contract should include details of all work to be completed and the specific cost of all materials to be used. Consumers should verify the work has been completed and that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid before making the final payment. Request a signed lien waiver stating the contractor has received payment.
 
Start with trust. BBB encourages homeowners to search BBB Member Pages for accredited contractors and remodeling businesses in their area. These businesses uphold strict BBB Standards of Trust and work to resolve disputes.

Get references. Ask all contractors for local references and, if possible, homeowners should visit and inspect completed projects.

Compare costs. Homeowners should obtain at least three bids from prospective contractors based upon the same materials, labor and time needed to complete the project. BBB’s free eQuote service allows consumers to receive estimates via e-mail from BBB Accredited Businesses. Keep in mind cost differences may include issues such as quality of materials, craftsmanship and subcontracting for specialized labor.
 
Verify licensing and insurance. Make sure the company is insured against claims covering worker's compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents. Further, some contractors must meet licensing and bonding requirements set by the state, county or city housing authority. Confirm these details before the contractor begins work. 
 
About BBB:

BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. BBB accomplishes this mission by creating a community of trustworthy businesses, setting standards for marketplace trust, encouraging and supporting best practices, celebrating marketplace role models and denouncing substandard marketplace behavior.
Businesses that earn BBB Accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization's high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB is the preeminent resource to turn to for objective, unbiased information on businesses and charities.
 
Contact BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas at (512) 445-4748.
 
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