Home renovation scam targeting Mississauga and Brampton residents

Peel Regional Police are warning the public about a home renovation scam currently targeting residents in Mississauga, Brampton, and neighbouring areas.

It’s reported that scammers are posing as door-to-door contractors, selling renovation services that are unsolicited by the homeowner, and at prices lower than market value.

Once a deal is reached, police say the scammers will typically request a large cash advance.

“The suspects may or may not start the job, but will ask for additional money,” according to police.

“Once this additional or final payment is received, the suspects disappear and phone calls and text messages will go unanswered, leaving the consumer with an incomplete project and/or damage to their residence.”

Police say there have been a several complaints in Peel Region so far for this type of scam, some of which involved suspects who used the names of legitimate companies.

Recent complaints state that the suspects are male with predominantly Irish or possibly Scottish accents.

Residents are advised to be wary of any salespeople offering cheap services, especially if the service is unsolicited.

Police have offered the following tips to help avoid falling victim to home renovation scams:

• Be cautious of unsolicited offers via the phone, or door to door.
• Don’t be pressured to make a quick decision and obtain more than one estimate.
• Get recommendations from people you trust and check multiple references.
• Do your research and check online reviews (for example, BBB.org)
• Ensure the contractor is insured and ask about their warranty.
• Draft a written contract clearly outlining the work that is requested and agreed upon.
• Establish a timeline with expected start dates, benchmarks, and anticipated finish dates.
• Establish an exact cost of the project.
• Request a receipt if one is not offered.

The investigation into these incidents is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Peel police’s fraud bureau at 905-453-2121 ext. 3335.