RCMP are warning homeowners to be aware of home improvement scams, that could cost them thousands of dollars.
The so-called “travellers” come from outside Canada, live in campgrounds or trailer parks and operate as unlicensed contractors. They tend to head to southern Alberta, and run scams involving paving, painting, roofing and other home renovations.
Typically, they offer a reduced rate for a job, saying they are already working in the neighbourhood, but RCMP warn that their shoddy work can end up costing consumers more in the end. The scammers tend to target seniors with a high-pressure sales pitch.
Warning signs include quoting a price without seeing the actual job, demanding a large down payment and conducting a free inspection of a home, then suggesting major repairs.
The public is urged to report such scams by contacting the RCMP. Service Alberta also has a renovations tipsheet to help homeowners find qualified contractors.
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