N.S. RCMP warn people of HVAC sales scam

An RCMP epaulette is seen in Edmonton on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

The Nova Scotia RCMP Commercial Crime Section (CCS) is investigating after multiple reports of a scam involving the sales of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

RCMP say the scammers are using HVAC companies’ advertisements of legitimate energy efficiency rebates online to lure people into signing up for loans.

“Once potential victims have entered their personal details into a social media link or website that appears to be about government-affiliated rebate programs, the information is sent to the fraudsters,” a news release from RCMP reads.

The employees, who believe they are working for a legitimate company, follow up with prospective victims to arrange for sales reps to visit their homes. High-pressure sales tactics are used to convince people to sign expensive financing contracts of up to $30,000.

“If the loan agreement is signed, the victim’s funds go straight to the scammers’ bank account,” says Cpl. Andy Bezanson, CCS investigator. “Then the fraudulent HVAC representatives cut off contact, leaving the victim to pay off the hefty loan for a system they never received.”

Investigators encourage people to do their due diligence when looking to purchase an HVAC system including researching the company, its equipment and who they’re offering financing through. They also warn people to be wary of financing that goes through to companies directly, especially before the work has started as well as understand how energy rebates work.

“You should never feel pressured to hire a contactor or enter into a financial contract with them; that’s a red flag,” says Cpl. Bezanson. “And don’t provide any personal information until you’re sure that the company you’re dealing with has an established record and is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.”

RCMP say the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information on this scam is asked to call their RCMP detachment.

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