OPP warn of door-to-door paving scams popping up across eastern Ontario

A warning is out from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) regarding door-to-door driveway paving and repair scams.

The OPP says the frauds are popping up all around the province, including eastern Ontario, despite rules banning certain door-to-door sales.

Police say those involved in these frauds are persuasive and persistent, are often working without a work permit, have no permanent business address and operate in a fly-by-night manner.

These frauds often see the victim agree to have work completed, with the suspects using poor quality products and doing an inadequate job. Once the work is completed, the victim will be unable to reach the company to repair the shoddy work that was done.

The OPP has released a list of tips on how to protect yourself:

• Be wary of unsolicited contractors who knock on your door offering services, especially if they only accept cash and/or require a large down payment.
• Do not make on-the-spot decisions about hiring a contractor.
• Select a reputable company and do your research.
• Obtain a detailed, written contract.
• Consider shopping around and obtaining detailed estimates.
• Never feel pressured to commit on the spot and don’t provide full payment for work that has not begun.
• Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.