Vancouver-area contractor nearly swindled by scammer who claimed to own an unsold home

A Metro Vancouver contractor is warning small businesses after he nearly fell victim to a scam that could have cost him thousands of dollars.

“He says he was willing to put down a deposit on his credit card without even coming to our office and seeing what we’re about,” said contractor Wilson Lin, the owner of Construct x Design Ltd.

Consumer Matters coverage on Globalnews.ca:

3:10 Consumer Matters helps solve Samsung recall dispute

• Consumer Matters helps solve Samsung recall dispute
• Consumer Matters: Billed twice
• Consumer Matters: What you should know if WestJet pilots strike
• Consumer Matters: Woman reports trouble fighting Impark ticket
• Consumer Matters helps Greyhound customers get refunds

Previous Video

Next Video

Lin was referring to a fraudster who contacted him via email, saying he found his contracting company on the Better Business Bureau’s website.

At first, Lin said he thought it would be his big break.

“Oh cool, another job. This is like a dream come true,” said Lin.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Oh cool, another job. This is like a dream come true," said Lin.

The scam artist gave Lin the address to a Vancouver property he said he had just purchased and was in need of a major renovation.

“I was pumped. He even complimented our work. He said he took a look on our website and said you guys seem like the right fit,” Lin said.

READ MORE: Hundreds of potential tenants show up at Sooke rental after scammer lists it for $500

Lin was suspicious and contacted the real estate agent who allegedly sold the house that was supposed to be renovated.

“I contacted the real estate agent. He told me no one has even made an offer on the house. That was the biggest giveaway that this was not real,” said Lin.

Lin reported the incident to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) who said this was likely another instance of the overpayment scam.

Tips to help you avoid avoid falling victim to the overpayment scam:

• The potential customer claims to be out of town and can’t meet in person
• The client claims to have paid too much
• The client only wants to communicate via email or text messaging.

The BBB also recommends asking for personal references and proof that the client actually owns the property scheduled for work.