Homeowner Alert: 5 Renovation Scams You Must Avoid in 2025

Homeowners in 2025 need to be vigilant about potential scams in the home improvement sector. This week, we dive into the top five scams that could catch you off guard, from dubious duct cleaning companies to unlicensed contractors lurking on social media. With the rise of low-quality house flippers and their shoddy repairs, it's more important than ever to do your due diligence before hiring any service. We'll discuss how to identify these scams and protect your home and wallet. Join us as we navigate these pitfalls to ensure your next home project is safe and successful.

Home improvement can be a rewarding endeavor, but it comes with its share of risks, particularly when it comes to scams targeting homeowners. In this enlightening mid-week update, Eric G. highlights the top five scams that homeowners should be vigilant about in 2025. The discussion begins with a cautionary tale about duct cleaning companies that lure customers with enticing offers on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Many of these services are often run by untrained individuals who can cause more damage than they repair, leading to costly repairs down the line. Eric underscores the importance of hiring certified professionals, specifically those accredited by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), to ensure that your duct cleaning is handled properly and safely.

Continuing the conversation, Eric sheds light on the dangers of unlicensed contractors who proliferate on platforms like Nextdoor. These individuals may promise affordable rates but come with the risk of unfinished work or worse, legal liabilities if accidents occur on-site. Eric advises homeowners to verify licenses and insurance before engaging with any contractor, emphasizing that the lowest bid can often lead to the highest cost in the end. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the increasing concern of low-quality house flippers who cut corners on repairs, leaving unsuspecting buyers with severe issues shortly after purchase. Eric’s insights serve as a crucial guide for homeowners looking to navigate the complex and often treacherous landscape of home improvement and renovations.

Takeaways:

• Beware of duct cleaning scams often promoted on social media like Nextdoor and Facebook.
• Always hire NADCA certified duct cleaning professionals to avoid potential damage and scams.
• Pressure washing can cause significant damage to roofs and exteriors if not done properly.
• Foundation repair companies may overcharge homeowners, always get a second opinion from a structural engineer.
• Unlicensed contractors on social media can pose risks to your renovation projects and finances.
• Be cautious of low-quality house flippers who perform subpar renovations without necessary permits.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Monument Grills
• NADCA

Mentioned in this episode:

Suscribe to our YouTube Channel

Want even more home improvement tips, tricks, and insider advice? Subscribe to my YouTube channel @AroundTheHouseEricG for project guides, product reviews, and behind-the-scenes content you won’t hear on the podcast. Don’t miss out—hit that subscribe button today!

Around the House YouTube

Clean up inside and out with AeroBroom

The world's first 2-in-1 sweeper broom and cordless leaf blower combined in one convenient tool to clean your outdoor living spaces. With the Aerobroom, you can use it to sweep just like a normal broom, or you can blast debris from hard-to-reach areas.

AeroBroom