Home Repair
This type of
scam involves a man, or group of men offering to perform home repairs or work at
rates well below market price, with a typical claim that they have left over
materials from a job completed nearby. Often they will try to build trust by
claiming that their grandfather, or father completed work on the residence when
it was originally built.
There are many
variations to this scam, but the two most common forms involve either asking for
a substantial deposit and not returning to complete the job, or the job is
completed with poor workmanship, and needs other contractors to complete the job
correctly.
Typically,
these scams are directed at elderly residents, and the scam artists knock at the
door to make the initial contact. Sometimes the scam artists will represent
themselves as being from a well known, reputable business.
Prevention
Always be wary
with any claims of work that can be completed at substantially reduced
prices. If an offer is made that is tempting, be sure to check out the
individuals involved, and any company they claim to be from. A quick phone call
to the company they claim to represent may save you thousands of pounds and be
sure to find the company's phone number yourself, rather than calling a number
they supply.
Never sign any
paperwork, or hand over any money on that first solicitation from workers. Take
the time to check them out. Genuine contractors will be happy for you to take at
least a week to make a decision, while scam artists simply want your money
immediately.
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