Warm weather has arrived in St. Lawrence County, but the spring can also be an opportunity for scams.

Sheriff Kevin Wells said his agency deals with complaints regarding tree cutting, lawn cleaning, driveway paving and roof sealing scams.

Wells said such scams are not a large problem here, but one problem is too many when someone gets victimized.

“Just be aware, pay when jobs are finished, don't up front money, ask for references and check with someone that you trust if you are questioning it,” he said.

Last summer a Lisbon property owner reported what he believed to be a scam when people offered to paint his dairy barn for $2,500.

An investigation by deputies revealed the people had come from Augusta, Georgia where similar investigations were underway.

To help people avoid such scams the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York has offered the following tips for homeowners

• Get a written contract. New York State Law requires that home improvement contracts must be in writing, include a description of the work and materials used. You must receive a copy before work begins.

• Look for red flags. You can avoid being victimized by illegitimate contractors by knowing the common red flags, such as door-to-door solicitations, high pressure sales tactics, ploys such as “a special deal from leftover materials” or that they were “working in your neighborhood,” or a lack of a local business listing, lack of a local phone number or out of town plates on his/her vehicle.

• Don’t forget to get more than one quote. BBB recommends that consumers obtain two or three estimates for their project, and to keep in mind that the three day cooling off rule applies to most home repair contracts. Asking a lot of questions and doing your research to hire the right contractor can make all the difference.

• Never pay up front, don’t pay with cash. BBB recommends the 3-3-3 rule: One third up front, one third at a half-way milestone mark, and one third at the completion of the work. BBB also recommends paying by credit card which offers more protection through your bank. Once your cash is gone, it’s gone.

• Never assume. We all know that old saying and it is true - most items like knowing whether your contractor has the proper insurance, permits, licenses and confirming that your money is safe in an escrow account are details you should research and verify.

• Don’t let emotions rule. Damage to your home or business is upsetting, but letting emotions lead can tend to cloud decision making. BBB recommends you take a step back to consider all of your options and avoid the urgency of your situation become the only factor used in your hiring choice. Unless there’s danger looming, take your time to do your research.

• Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Written contracts are critical for any job, but if you’re unsure about fine print or any of the project details, ask someone you trust to read them over. You can always ask the company questions, but it's what's in writing that can be legally binding should something go wrong — not what someone tells you.

Anyone who thinks they may be a victim of such a scam should contact their local law enforcement agency.