City officials want neighbors to be cautious and alert to unlicensed contractors attempting to sell services door-to-door after the severe hail and thunderstorm overnight early on Feb. 28.
After a storm like this, we often see individuals knocking on neighbors’ doors to try and sell construction services for home damage. They may be based outside Michigan, be unlicensed, and may ask you to sign a contract right away and/or pay money upfront.
The State of Michigan requires contractors to be licensed and insured, and construction work requires the proper city permits.
Please know that anyone attempting to sell products or services door-to-door in the City of Battle Creek must get a vendor’s permit from the city. Currently, no construction contractors are holding valid city vendor permits to do this. All valid, active vendors receive an identification badge from the city.
Neighbors can ask for identification from someone who claims to be a licensed vendor. If you have questions about the permitting process, or would like to see the list of current, licensed vendors, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 269-966-3311 or visit our website at https://www.battlecreekmi.gov/483/Business-Licenses (battlecreekmi.gov > Your Government > City Clerk > Business Licenses). Find “Vendors” at the bottom of the page.
The city’s Inspections Division also is a resource for questions about home damage, or whether a contractor is licensed. You can reach them at 269-966-3311.
If someone comes to your door and fails to show the ID badge, ignores a “no soliciting” sign, or otherwise causes you concern, please call Battle Creek Police at the non-emergency number, 269-781-0911.