As the warmer months draw near, the Ontario Provincial Police is cautioning residents about a concerning trend in paving and construction fraud. With homeowners beginning to assess their properties for winter damage, the OPP emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant against deceptive repair deals.
Fraudsters involved in these schemes often exhibit persistent, persuasive, and occasionally aggressive behavior. Some key points to consider include:
- Many of these “contractors” lack an official online presence or registration with reputable organizations such as local chambers of commerce or the Better Business Bureau.
- Fraudsters frequently make direct contact with homeowners, either in person or over the phone, using convincing tactics to persuade them into unnecessary contracts or services.
- They often utilize professionally designed flyers and websites to create an appearance of legitimacy.
- Homeowners should exercise caution if a contractor claims to have leftover materials from another job, as reputable contractors typically know the exact amount of materials required.
- Be wary if there is no written contract with a pre-established quote, and if the price unexpectedly changes mid-job due to alleged “unforeseen problems.”
- Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, are frequently targeted, with fraudsters often requesting cash payments for purported “today only” deals.
- It is advisable to be cautious if payment is demanded upfront before the completion of the job.
“If an offer seems too good to be true, chances are it is, and it’s someone trying to scam you out of your money,” warns the OPP.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity or encounters to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
The OPP advises the public to remain alert and exercise caution when approached by individuals offering paving or construction services, especially if the circumstances align with the described warning signs.
Written by Scott Arnold