Attorney General warns against tree removal scammers

CHARLOTTE, N.C.

The North Carolina attorney general is warning customers against price gouging and unfair business practices.

State laws against price gouging and unfair business practices remain in effect, Attorney General Roy Cooper reminded towing companies Friday as consumers reported high towing fees.

Bad weather isnt an excuse to jack up prices and rip off consumers, Cooper said. If you think youre being charged too much for towing, let us know about it.

Some drivers forced to abandon their cars by this weeks winter storm are now finding that the cars have been towed and they face hefty towing fees. More than a dozen consumers from across the state have called Coopers Consumer Protection Division to report being charged too much for towing. Some consumers are reporting charges of $400 or more compared to normal towing rates of closer to $100 to $150.

As the snow and ice begin to melt, some of the trees damaged during the storm may need to be removed.

But Cooper wants you to watch out for those who may take advantage of you.

He says you should make sure to use a reputable tree removal service.

To avoid issues, he advises people to make sure the company is insured, dont pay up front and dont let anyone rush you.

Consumers who believe they are being overcharged for vehicle towing or storage should file a complaint with Coopers Consumer Protection Division online at http://www.ncdoj.gov or call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM toll-free within North Carolina.

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Attorney General warns against tree removal scammers