South Simcoe police are warning of yet another scam circulating in the area.
This time, it’s a home improvement-based fraud where individuals pose as legitimate contractors who offer services at a discounted rate, only to provide substandard work or disappear with the deposit or payment.
According to police, tactics include:
- Unsolicited door-to-door offers for driveway paving or repair services.
- Pressure through limited-time offers or claims of using leftover materials from a nearby job.
- Demanding full payment upfront or accepting only cash.
- Contractor starting limited work with promises to come back months later.
To avoid falling victim, research and verify the credentials of any contractor before agreeing to let them work on your property, obtain multiple quotes from reputable paving companies, and ask for references and to see a locally completed job. As well, get a written quote or contract that lays out the complete scope of work, avoid making any payments until the job is done to satisfaction and according to the agreed-upon terms, and report any suspicious activity or encounters.
“Simcoe County has many long standing established paving businesses,” the department said in a media release issued March 28. “These professionals know the scams and will work to earn your trust and business. As always remember — if (it’s) too good to be true it probably is. Stay vigilant, stay informed.”
Anyone with information related to this scam can contact police at 905-775-3311 or 705-436-2141, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. They can also leave an anonymous tip online at crimestopperssdm.com.
