NORTH PERTH – “If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
Those are the words of advice coming from the Perth County OPP, who say they have been receiving an increase in reports of unfinished paving projects and extremely poor-quality jobs in North Perth.
“This familiar scam puts victims out thousands of dollars, most of which can be prevented by doing a bit of research before committing to the scam artists,” states an Aug. 16 release from the OPP.
Police say that during the warmer months, scammers posing as door-to-door salespeople will make the rounds offering services such as paving and roofing.
“They will use high-pressure tactics making it sounds as if you will lose out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, or that you have to act right away,” state police.
Licences required
In North Perth, door-to-door sales people – or transient traders – are required to have a licence to operate within the municipality.
These licenses range anywhere from $50 to $2,100, depending on the business and length of the license.
For a transient trader, these licenses are $50 for one month or $400 for the year.
Lindsay Cline, North Perth’s clerk, said a transient trader such as a paving company going door-to-door in the municipality would need a licence to legally do business here.
Cline disclosed that only one transient trader licence has been issued recently, to Eastlink, and that “we have not issued one to any kind of paving company.”
Legally, residents can ask a door-to-door salesperson to see their transient trader licence. If one is not produced, that should be a red flag.
Police are offering several tips for residents to help prevent becoming a victim of these types of dealings:
- if someone comes to your door, ask to see some identification;
- if you are interested in what this person has to offer, take the time to find out about their business and their offer. If they are a legitimate company, they will wait and often encourage you to do your research;
- always get at least three quotes on any project around the house, regardless of the service or product being sold;
- never sign a contract without checking the credibility of the company or person selling the product or service. Get references from other customers to ensure quality of work;
- those with little business experience should never sign a contract without running it by a trusted family member, friend, or neighbour;
- never fully open or unlock your door to anyone you don’t know. Talk through a locked or secured door if you don’t know their identity. If you don’t want them at your door, tell them to “go away.” If they don’t, call police;
- report suspicious persons or activity to police immediately; and
- trust your instincts. If something sounds too good to be true or seems off, it is probably a scam.
If you think you have been targeted by or have spotted a scam, there are several agencies that can provide advice or submit a report to, such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Competition Bureau, Office of Consumer Affairs, Better Business Bureau and the Canada Revenue Agency.
