Be cautious of paving and home repair scams: What police want you to know

Need your driveway paved? Well, before you hire just anyone, provincial police are issuing a warning to residents about paving and repair scams on the rise across the province.

Police urge residents to be cautious about door-to-door offers to pave driveways, fix roofs, and do home repairs as part of a “one day only” deal, saying this should serve as a red flag.

“They may seem professional, with flyers and websites, but they often use fake names, false ID and unmarked vehicles,” OPP stated. “They ask for cash up front, then leave behind poor-quality work or never return at all.”

Police say these scams usually pick up between April and October, and they often go unreported.

The Ontario police service offers this advice, “If someone shows up at your door offering services you didn’t request, don’t feel pressured. Take your time, talk to a trusted friend or family member, and report anything suspicious to police.”

They also say the old adage, “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is” applies.

Residents are urged to look into the company before offering payment, read the contract carefully and call police if it seems like it could be a scam.