ORILLIA – The OPP is advising people to be cautious of possible paving and home repair scams.
“Individuals may offer to pave driveways, fix roofs, or do other home repairs, often claiming it’s a ‘one-day-only deal,’” OPP officials stated in a June 24 press release.
“They may seem professional, with flyers and websites, but they often use fake names, false ID and unmarked vehicles.
“They ask for cash up front, then leave behind poor-quality work, or never return at all.”
Police say the scams usually happen between April and October and often go unreported.
“If someone shows up at your door offering services you didn’t request, don’t feel pressured,” states the release.
“Take your time, talk to a trusted friend or family member, and report anything suspicious to police.”
OPP officials say these scams now “happen on a regular basis” and they suggest the following tips to avoid becoming a target/victim:
– if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is;
– proper businesses don’t need to knock on doors as they’re usually already busy;
– always check out the company first and read the whole contract; and
– if you think it might be a scam, call the police.
Police are urging residents to “remain vigilant and report any suspicious paving offers or contractor activity” to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
For more information on how to recognize and protect yourself from scams, visit ontario.ca/page/identify-scam-or-fraud.
