As the remodeling season moves into full gear, the City of Dayton has a program to protect homeowners from fraudulent contractors. Dayton requires all home improvement contractors working in the city limits to register with the Department of Building Services. The number to call to see if contractor is registered with the City of Dayton is 333-3883.

Everyday the Better Business Bureau receives calls regarding home improvement work. Many artists try to scare homeowners into repairing their homes. Or they may offer unbelievable low prices use they claim to have leftover materials. It is important to remember experienced contractors know much material to order for each job.

Another con is to start the work then ask for money to buy more materials. Once the con artist has money, he f"s to return. And you are left with no money and an unfinished home improvement job. ‘We want to make sure that as citizens begin thinking about home repairs, they know how to select the contractor," said Bill Nelson, Director of the Department of Building Services. "We can help with the process by making contractors register with us in case any questions or concerns arise."

The Better Business Bureau offers some advice that can protect homeowners from fly-by-night operators.

First, if it sound too good to be true, it probably is. It's a good idea to get at least three bids on projects based on the same specifications, materials, labor, and time needed to complete the project. Discuss the bids with each contractor to ensure you understand the reasons for price differences. Don't automatically choose the lowest price.

Find out if the contractor is licensed, bonded, or insured. And check to determine if the contractor is required to be registered. In the city of Dayton, contractors must register at the Department of Building Services. Check a contractor by calling 333-3883.

Also, get all agreements in writing, including oral promises.

Never pay cash. Pay by check payable to the business. Also, be leery if the contractor asks for all the money up front. An unusually large down payment or an unethical payment schedule should signal a red flag. And always get payment receipts.

Watch out for things that may indicate a fraud. For instance, look at the vehicle. Does it have out-of-state license plates? Are there children in the vehicle or are there signs on the vehicle? Can a business card be provided?

Also, check out the contractor with the Better Business Bureau. You can reach the Dayton Better Business Bureau at 222-5825 or 1-800-776-5301. Or, visit the Bureau's web site www.dayton.bbb.org.

The Better Business Bureau has a free brochure available titled – Tips On Home Improvements. Remember, any legitimate company wanting the business will be willing to submit to a reference check.

For more information about the City of Dayton contractor registration program, contact the

Department of Building Services at 333-3883.