Home improvement scams rise in the United States

Home improvement scams are increasing during the summer months as homeowners begin seasonal remodeling projects. In 2024, U.S. consumers reported 81,925 home improvement scams, with nearly 1 in 10 Americans having experienced such fraud.

According to the Better Business Bureau, the median monetary loss for these scams in 2024 was $1,800, making home improvement the fourth-costliest of 27 scam categories. One notable case involved a North Texas family that lost $250,000 to individuals posing as architects and remodelers on social media.

Warning signs of contractor fraud include requests for large upfront payments—exceeding one-third of the total cost—or demands for payment via untraceable methods such as cash or prepaid debit cards. Scammers may also use high-pressure tactics, such as offering heavily discounted deals on leftover materials.