Police issue alert over fraudulent home repair schemes in the north

NEWS RELEASE

ANISHINABEK POLICE SERVICE

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The Anishinabek Police Service is issuing a warning to residents about a home repair fraud targeting some of our central and northern communities.

How does the scam work?

The fraud involves contractors travelling door-to-door selling services that are unsolicited by a consumer. These services might include renovations such as asphalt and driveway repairs, chimney repair, general masonry work, general debris cleaning or roof repairs and waterproofing.

The suspect(s) offer their services as asphalt pavers, roofers, or maintenance workers, requesting full or partial payment upfront in cash. They offer low prices upfront before demanding additional money from victims for “supplies,” additional work, or simply to complete the original job.

Jobs are usually done poorly, left unfinished or sometimes never started after the initial cash deposit is received.

Once this additional or final payment is received, the contractor disappears and phone calls and text messages will go unanswered leaving the consumer with a damaged or partially completed project.

There have been multiple complaints with this similar mode of operation and similar suspects in our First Nations communities in the past week. Police believe there may be additional victims, as well as victims outside of our region.

The “contractor” or suspects that traditionally perpetrate these types of scams can be aggressive and eager to acquire an initial cash deposit from victims. A series of business cards, pamphlets, and printed contracts may also accompany door-to-door sales pitches.

How can a homeowner protect themselves?

The following tips are being shared to help homeowners when hiring a contractor for their home.

• Get recommendations from people you trust.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
• Do your research.
• Don’t be pressured to make a quick decision.
• Ensure the contractor is insured.
• Get multiple written estimates.
• Check references.
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers via the phone, or door-to-door.

Put it on Paper

• Work requested and agreed upon.
• Dates – Start, benchmarks, and finish.
• Exact Cost of the project.
• Acquire a receipt.
• Acquire a guarantee/warranty information.

Community safety is a shared responsibility. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact police on our non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122.

Anonymous information may also be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or online or through a mobile app. Crime Stoppers guarantees the anonymity of tipsters and doesn’t ask for personal information. Tips that lead to successful investigations and resolutions may be eligible for cash rewards.

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