Police issue warning after driveway paving left partially finished

The driveway paving, repair, and replacement crews are out and about in neighbourhoods around Waterloo Region and beyond.

In Guelph, police there say one woman fell victim to a scam that saw her driveway only partially completed.

In another instance, a separate driveway was torn up and replaced, but the pieces of the old driveway were never removed and just left on the road in front of the house.

Friday morning, police were called about a group of five suspicious men in the east end of the city, going door-to-door offering driveway work.

When confronted by police and bylaw officers, all of the men said through a translator that they had no training or experience doing driveway paving whatsoever.

Furthermore, the men claimed they weren’t even sure what city they were in at the time.

“None of the men spoke English, but one explained through a translator that they wait each morning at a Toronto coffee shop and contractors arrive in vehicles to offer cash for random jobs,” reads a release.

In this most recent case, the men told police they did not believe they were going to get paid, so they left the job incomplete.

“Officers spoke to several residents in the area who identified the men going door-to-door as having strong Scottish or Irish accents, though one reported one of the males claimed to be from Newfoundland. “One homeowner told police the men claimed they were with the City of Guelph.”

Police are asking homeowners to be cautious when dealing with door-to-door sales.

“Despite the high-pressure tactics used, most of these home repair or renovation projects are civil matters, especially if a contract is signed.”

Tips to avoid getting scammed:

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited offers or claims from unknown individuals
• Obtain at least three quotes from reputable companies before entering a contract.
• Check online reviews, licenses, and Better Business Bureau ratings before hiring any contractor. Also, consider asking for references.
• Take your time to read and understand any contract before signing, and never feel pressured to make an immediate decision. Speak to family members or a trusted friend to see if they express any concerns.
• Consult with your insurance company about coverage and ensure the contractor is working in compliance with your policy.