After Wind Storm on March 2, Officials Warn of “Woodchuck Scams”
A quick tour of the neighborhood shows a lot of limbs and several trees were felled by winds of 60 mph and more on March 2. In its wake, residents are being warned by officials to be on the lookout for “Woodchuck Scams” – companies that go door to door promising to trim trees, pick up debris, and even inspect and repair your home for wind damage.
Montgomery County’s Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) also warned that some of the companies may also try to talk you into discussing home improvement projects inside your home. In comments on WTOP radio, Montgomery County Police Lieutenant Michael Hartnett said: “They have no regard whatsoever for the trees. All they’re doing is trying to make money off of you.”
OCP officials advised residents to do their homework before signing a contract, using its guide to Choosing a Home Improvement Contractor. You can check online to make sure the license number a contractor gives you belongs to them. Under the Door-to-Door Sales Act, residents have five days to cancel a contract and seven days if they are a senior.