Springtime is a time when con artists prey on homeowners, especially the elderly

Before you pay anyone up front who offers cut-rate deals, special financing and other perks, the Better Business Bureau suggests you do the following:
Obtain the name and address of the company that person allegedly represents. If the person does not represent a known business and the circumstances suggest an itinerant contractor or sales representative, ask for references and contact each one. Get all details of the offer in writing and carefully review it. Any verbal promises should be included in the contract. Verify that the contractor is properly licensed, bonded, and insured. Determine how long the company has been in business and call your Better Business Bureau to determine the firm's customer experience record. Obtain bids from several companies. Don't always go for the lowest bid. In many cases, you will get exactly what you pay for.If you've checked references and the company's reputation, and you decide to hire the company, make the check payable to the company and not to the salesman or any other individual's name. Do not pay in cash. Any legitimate company that wants your business will be more than willing to allow you the time to check it out. Don't fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics such as "this is the only chance you have" or "by tomorrow the extra materials will be gone."
Source: Better Business Bureau