During the current COVID-19 pandemic, fraudsters and unscrupulous contractors can take advantage of people’s fear and uncertainty.

The Carbon Builders Association would like to remind homeowners to protect themselves from scammers who may be out there and are trying to take advantage of the coronavirus pandemic.

Deb Kleckner, executive officer at the Carbon Builders Association, said homeowners need to be on their toes perhaps more now than ever.

“They know for the most part people can’t do repairs and they’re going to prey on them,” Kleckner said. “I know it’s coming; I see it on social media, and there are those that aren’t following the rules.”

Kleckner said that unfortunately, scammers often use a natural disaster or a crisis to solicit door-to-door, distribute flyers, or offer services via the internet, phone calls or other means.

“This is not a good situation,” she said. “We need to get the word out there.”

Kleckner said there are vulnerable consumers who have to be careful not to let themselves wide open to those “who are not necessarily the most trusting in the world.

“They need to be aware and practice caution and be safe,” she said. “It concerns me; it’s happening already, and the consumer needs to be aware.”

Kleckner said that construction and remodeling has been deemed nonessential for major portions of the industry, with much home construction and remodeling work in Pennsylvania not considered life-sustaining during the pandemic.

However, Kleckner noted that during this crisis, contractors can perform emergency repairs. Some contractors, and services have either received a waiver or have been determined as an essential service.

“There is a limit to the emergency work; if it’s still in livable condition, you cannot have a further renovation at this time,” Kleckner said. “You have to stay the course until we get back on track, therefore maintaining social distancing and interaction with others where it’s not necessary.”

Kleckner added that the stimulus checks that many may soon be receiving can increase the likelihood that scammers will be looking for other opportunities.

“Unfortunately, there are some that will exploit a crisis like the current pandemic,” she said. “We are hopeful that if we call attention to the possibility of being approached or solicited by someone, our community can stay safe and vigilant.”