(STATEWIDE) After recent storms left many homes needing repairs, some people across Wisconsin are getting calls they’re not supposed to get — and state officials say those calls may be breaking the law.
Consumer protection leaders warn that some businesses are cold-calling people on the state’s Do Not Call Registry, offering free estimates for roof, siding, or window repairs. Those offers might sound helpful, but they count as sales calls — and they’re not allowed if you didn’t ask for them.
Michelle Reinen with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection says the key issue is consent. If you didn’t reach out first, companies shouldn’t be calling you.
“You have the right to choose who you work with,” she said to our sister station, 620 WTMJ. “If you’re on the Do Not Call list and didn’t request contact, those calls shouldn’t be happening.”
The state is asking people to report these calls, especially as storm damage creates an opening for aggressive or misleading sales tactics. Some callers may frame the pitch as a “free inspection” or “survey,” but officials say those are still considered attempts to sell a service.
If you get one of these calls, you can file a complaint by calling 800-422-7128 or visiting the state’s consumer protection website.
And if you’re not already on the Do Not Call Registry, you can sign up by calling 888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register or going online to nocall.wi.gov.
