Watch out for summer scams

Editor's note: This is a transcript of the audio file.

Who doesn't love summer? The beaches. The barbecue. The backyard picnics. Just don't get too lost in your laziness.

Scammers are busy scheming, and some swindles are more common in summer months. I'm Janet Stauble with your Bankrate.com Personal Finance Minute.

Contractors may approach homeowners and point out property damage. They'll say they can give you a deal because they have leftover materials from another job. The work is often shoddy: Who wants a driveway painted black when you asked for asphalt? Or it could cause more damage. The scammer may also just take the deposit and run. Be wary of anyone offering unsolicited home improvement. Do your research, and make sure contractors are bonded and insured. Summer is a big moving season, and rogue movers are on the hunt to hold your things hostage. Remember: You're hiring people to enter your home, take your stuff and drive away, so make sure they're licensed and come recommended.

Want to learn more about other summer scams? Log onto Bankrate.com. I'm Janet Stauble.