The State attorney General's office is warning South Dakotans about some shady transient vendors who are targeting the state, especially in the wake of hail storms in both the Sioux Falls and Rapid City areas.

Attorney General Marty Jackley also says citizens and business owners alike have complained to the Consumer Protection Division about paving contractors doing poor quality work, often at double or triple the price of the original quote.

Some of the precautions that can keep you from being victimized are:

Do not be pressured into a quick agreement.
Require a written contract that spells out the project in detail and the price.
Be cautious if the contractor will only take cash.
Do not pay in full until the work is completed satisfactorily.
Ask for local references.
Get bids from local contractors so you can compare prices.
Ask to see the contractor's current state tax license.

Also, if you have any questions, you can contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or consumerhelp@state.sd.us.

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