Halton police issue warning on home renovation fraud in region

Halton police are sounding the alarm on a home renovation fraud scheme that has been operating in the region.

Officers say contractors will travel door-to-door to sell services that are unsolicited by the consumer.

These services include chimney repair, general masonry work, step and driveway repairs, general debris cleaning, roof repairs, waterproofing among others.

Police say the suspect may provide a quote with prices lower than market value and once a deal is reached, will request a large cash payment.

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Previous victims have reported that the work may start, however the crew will not return to complete the agreed upon job. After the job is started, the consumer may be approached to provide additional money for supplies or to complete payments before the project is finished.

Once the original or final payment is received, the contractor disappears and communication stops leaving the consumer with a damaged or partially completed project.

The suspect is described as a middle-aged white male with a heavy Irish accent.

Investigators believe that there may be additional victims in and outside of the Halton region. Similar scam investigations were conducted by Halton police in the summer of 2022 and in July of this year.

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Officers say the suspects that traditionally run these types of fraud schemes can be aggressive and eager to acquire initial payments from victims. They say a series of business cards, pamphlets and printed contracts may also accompany door-to-door sales pitches.

Halton police are reminding homeowners to be cautious of any unsolicited offers, to receive multiple written estimates, check references, acquire a receipt and a guarantee and/or warranty information as some steps to protect against fraud.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the regional fraud unit at 905-465-8741.

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