This story is important both locally AND nationally.
Locally in the Greater Baltimore, Maryland area because the man photographed by Baltimore County police, Alex Rich, was arrested on multiple open warrants relating to theft schemes on Friday, March 15, the BCPD announced this week. He very well may have stolen from other unsuspecting homeowners who still haven't come forward. If you recognize Rich and have more information about his scams, contact BCPD.
Nationally, this story is relevent because this is the time of year that home repair and remodeling scams and thefts become much more prevalent. Take the advice from homeowners who've been wronged, don't pay cash for any job AND DO NOT PAY before work is completed to your satisfaction. A reputable contractor will perform the job prior to being paid. The contractor has the recourse of putting a lien on your property for failure to pay but if the contractor fails to perform a job and has already been paid, there's often little the homeowner can do when an unscrupulous contractor disappears with the home owners money.
Research prospective contractors through your local Better Business Bureau and check with your local jurisdiction for proper licensing and insurance converages before you allow work to begin on your property. If the contractor is not insured, the homeowner could be liable for injures on your property if they are not.
Finally, I'll say from experience, when you allow trades in your home, be aware that they may have employees who are less than honest. Keep an eye on your valuables. I had a situation once where employees of a contractor I had vetted thoroughly, stole expensive jewelry from my home while they were doing work. Even when you do check out contractors, you still have to be extremely careful with who is coming into your home. Homeowners are very vulnerable.
Hope this info saves you some aggravation. Michael J