The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) have arrested four people and charged three after an investigation into a home renovation fraud taking place in Halton region.
Last week, on May 30, 2024, police were called to a residence in Oakville after a victim was scammed out of a large sum of money by suspects claiming to work for a company called "Approved Roofing and Masonry."
The suspects initially came to the victim’s door and offered a free chimney inspection and repair. After an agreed upon price, the workers repeatedly inflated and changed the price with no work actually being completed. Police were eventually called after the resident noticed new and extensive damage to the home after the free inspection.
The suspects were arrested by police at the residence. Two male adults and one male youth have been charged with Fraud Over $5,000.
All of the suspects charged are of no fixed address.
Police would like to, "remind residents about ongoing home renovation frauds being committed within the Halton region."
The suspects will often attend neighbourhoods going door to door soliciting their services for various types of exterior home renovation work including roofing, chimney and driveway repair. After an agreed upon price, the costs quickly increase with little or no work being completed. In some instances, it is suspected that the culprits may have caused damage to a home in order to offer the repair work. The suspects will typically request payments in cash and immediately.
The following consumer protection tips and information are being shared to help consumers when hiring a contractor for their home:
- Get recommendations from people you trust.
- Do your research.
- Don’t be pressured to make a quick decision.
- Ensure the contractor is insured.
- Get multiple written estimates.
- Check references.
- Be cautious of unsolicited offers via the phone, and especially door to door.
Obtain written contracts containing:
- Exact cost of the project.
- Acquire a guarantee / warranty information.
- Work requested and agreed upon.
- Dates (start, benchmarks, and finish).
- Acquire a receipt.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Regional Fraud Unit at (905) 465-8741.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. "See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers" at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.