Paris, Ont. resident loses $200K to fake renovation contractor

A file photo of a man knocking on a door.

Ontario Provincial Police are once again warning the public about door-to-door contractors.

They said a stranger approached a homeowner in Paris, Ont. and claimed to represent a business called “Ecoguard Contractors.”

According to OPP, the victim paid more than $200,000 for renovations that were, ultimately, never completed.

They were also inconsistencies that should have raised red flags.

“The contact information and website provided were not functional,” a media release said. “Payments were also made to a different company name, ‘Friendly Masonry Ltd.’”

OPP shared these tips for homeowners:

• A County Peddler’s Licence is required for door-to-door sales
• Verify the business’ details before hiring them to do any work
• Avoid large upfront payments
• Ensure all work is clearly documented

Victims are urged to report scams to their local police department and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center, even if there has been no financial loss.