As warmer weather arrives, door-to-door contractors may appear in neighborhoods, but some are looking to make a quick buck without completing the work. An Ontario woman learned this the hard way, losing $3,000 in a landscaping scam.
Victim speaks out
The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, told CTV News that she was approached by a man offering landscaping services at a reasonable price. After agreeing, she paid a $3,000 deposit upfront. The contractor started the work but never finished, leaving her yard in disarray. 'I will never, ever do anything like that again,' she said.
How the scam unfolded
The scammer promised to complete the job quickly, but after receiving the deposit, he became unreachable. The woman tried calling multiple times but got no response. She later discovered that the contractor had no business license or references.
Expert advice
Consumer advocates warn homeowners to be cautious when dealing with door-to-door contractors. They recommend:
- Verifying the contractor's credentials and license
- Getting multiple quotes before agreeing to work
- Avoiding large upfront payments
- Checking references and online reviews
- Signing a detailed contract outlining the scope of work
Rising trend
Scams like this are common in spring and summer, as homeowners seek yard improvements. The Better Business Bureau has issued alerts about similar schemes across Canada.
What to do if scammed
If you fall victim to a scam, report it to local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Also, contact your bank to see if the payment can be reversed.
Homeowners should trust their instincts and never feel pressured into making quick decisions. Taking time to research can save thousands of dollars.
