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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Water Damage Restoration Scams in Harwood

Water damage strikes fast in Harwood homes, and scammers love the chaos. They push quick fixes that cost you big later. Spot the tricks, verify pros, and protect your family like I would mine.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-866-674-2070

✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes

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Common Water Damage Restoration Scams in Harwood

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Deposit and Dash

Scammer takes a fat deposit for water extraction or drying, then ghosts you or does junk work.

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Fake Mold Panic

They 'discover' mold or hidden damage needing thousands in unneeded remediation.

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Unlicensed Fly-by-Nights

Out-of-towners without credentials botch drying, causing mold or structural issues.

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Bait-and-Switch Pricing

Lowball quote turns into massive bill after 'surprise' extras.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing general liability and workers' comp. Call the insurer to confirm it's current.

2

Licensing

Check the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) at tdlr.texas.gov. Search for contractor or mold remediation licenses required for water damage work.

3

References

Request 3 recent jobs in Gonzales County. Call to ask about work quality, timeliness, and cleanup.

Protection FAQs

Do water damage restorers need licenses in Texas?

Yes, often general contractor or mold remediation licenses via TDLR. Always verify at tdlr.texas.gov before hiring.

Is upfront payment normal?

Small deposits (10-20%) tied to contract milestones are okay. Avoid full payment before work starts.

How do I spot fake insurance?

Get a COI and call the listed insurer to confirm coverage dates and limits.

What if they pressure me during an emergency?

Real pros understand urgency but never rush you into bad deals. Take time to verify.

How to check local references?

Ask for Harwood or Gonzales County clients from the last year. Call and ask key questions.

What should trustworthy pros use?

Moisture meters, industrial dehumidifiers, air movers. Look for IICRC certification.

What if I think I've been scammed?

Contact Harwood PD, Texas AG consumer protection, and file with BBB. Stop payment if possible.

Hire with Confidence

Don't take risks with your property. We connect you with pre-screened, licensed professionals in Harwood.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-866-674-2070