After receiving a growing number of complaints from locals about unfinished or incredibly subpar paving jobs carried out by door-to-door salespeople looking to make a quick buck, Perth County OPP issued a warning.
It is advised to assume the worst when an offer seems too good to be true. This well-known con costs its victims thousands of dollars, the majority of which can be avoided by conducting some investigation before handing over money to the con artists.
In the summer, con artists will knock on doors and use high-pressure sales techniques to coerce people into buying services like paving or roofing. They'll advise you to take immediate action because it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
However, OPP encourage locals to conduct preliminary research, which should include obtaining at least three quotes, and references from other customers. You may also want to run any contract by someone you trust.
Never fully open or unlock your door to anyone you don't know. Report suspicious persons or activity to police immediately.
If you think you have spotted a scam or have been targeted by a scam, there are a number of government and law enforcement agencies that you can contact for advice or to make a report.
Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, www.antifraudcentre.ca
The Competition Bureau's Information Centre, www.competitionbureau.gc.ca
Office of Consumer Affairs, www.consumerhandbook.ca
Better Business Bureau, www.bbb.org
Canada Revenue Agency, www.cra-arc.gc.ca
