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Better Business Bureau
of Minnesota and North Dakota
Consumer Newsletter - May, 2011
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Hello! The arrival of warmer weather has brought with it some nasty spring storms. In this issue you'll find some tips from the BBB on what to do if damaging weather has moved through your area. We'll also give you some advice on flying in the busy summer season, and how to reduce the odds of getting stuck overnight in an unfamiliar town. May is graduation time for many high school students, and a lot of those students are thinking about scholarships to try to help cover the cost of college tuition. Some companies will tell you they can help you find information on scholarships - for a fee. Don't be fooled! Read below to see why you should never pay a company for this service. Finally, some Minnesotans are receiving mailings many are finding confusing from a company called HomeServe USA. We'll tell you what those mailings regard and what you need to know. Thank you for reading!!
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BBB Provides Tipsto Storm Damage Victims
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The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) is offering guidance to residents who suffered damage to their homes during this active spring weather season. "It's important to take precautions when cleaning up and making repair decisions," said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of the BBB. "Though most contractors have your best interests in mind, there are those few that are only interested in making a fast dollar." To avoid those bad actors, the BBB provides the following tips to homeowners who experience property damage.
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BBB Travel Tips
to Ensure a Safe and Timely Flight
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With summer just around the corner, many consumers are beginning to plan their vacation getaway. While dreaming of island sun, many travelers fail to factor uncertainties that can come with flying - such as unpredictable weather patterns, aviation system issues and maintenance or crew problems - into their travel plans.
"To avoid troubles in the sky, people need to have a plan and be aware of what their options are if there are delays," said BBB CEO Dana Badgerow. "With the burden and chaos that can come from a delayed or cancelled flight, it's important for travelers to be as prepared as they can be for that eventuality." The BBB is advising vacationers to plan ahead when traveling this summer to ensure safety and timeliness.
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Don't Pay for Free Adviceon Scholarships for College
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The academic year is winding down, and many people are preparing to apply for financial aid as tuition costs continue to rise. Each year, millions of people depend on grants and scholarships to pay for college. Navigating the process of applying for financial aid can be confusing and some companies claim they can help, but often only end up charging fees for information and assistance the student can already get for free elsewhere.
"Times are tight and many families desperately want to tap into the well of scholarships and grants to help their kids go to college," said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of the BBB. "Unfortunately, some companies are trying to take advantage of this situation." The Better Business Bureau recommends doing your research before paying a company to find financial aid for college.
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The BBB Absolute 'No' for May:Home Remedies
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Every month, the BBB informs the public of an absolute 'no,' a fraudulent scheme or offer they should be on the lookout for. The absolute no for May involves home remedies which are advertised online or in newspapers and often make outrageous health claims. Recently, the BBB investigated a company called Pure Life Health Laboratories, a company who makes a foot patch which allegedly provides users with many health benefits. The BBB has given the company a rating of "F" due to their nature of business and the claims they’re making, which are scientifically unproven.
If you're considering ordering an alternative medical product or treatment, the BBB recommends that you be wary of those making dubious claims, and keep in mind that nothing is more important than your health.
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Minnesota consumers contact BBB about HomeServe USA mailing
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Minnesota consumers have been contacting the BBB regarding a mailing they've received from HomeServe USA. The mailings inform recipients that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their exterior water lines, leaving them liable for repairs which could potentially cost thousands of dollars. It then provides an 800 number and a deadline to enroll in their Water Service Line Coverage. Some consumers have stated the mailings appear to be from a government or county agency. The BBB is advising consumers to review these notices carefully, particularly the portion that says 'HomeServe is an independent company separate from your local utility or community.'
The BBB also notes that while the company is correct when they say homeowners are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their water lines - from the street to their meters - the warranty coverage they offer is optional, not mandatory.
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Contact us with your questions!
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Operators in the BBB Resource Center are available Monday through Friday from
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to answer your questions at 651-699-1111, toll-free at 800-646-6222. You can also check company reports 24 hours a day at www.bbb.org or
e-mail inquiries to ask@thefirstbbb.org.
Remember, we're your BBB:
we're here for you!
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