Niagara Regional Police are alerting residents across the region to the rising incidents of scammers bilking consumers out of payments for driveway repairs or resurfacing jobs that are never completed.

“The public should beware of driveway scammers who frequently approach homeowners unsolicited, employing deceptive tactics such as overpromising, underquoting, and ultimately failing to deliver on their commitments,” Niagara police said in a news release.

“These scammers typically operate door-to-door, offering driveway paving or resurfacing services,” the release continued.

While homeowners are presented with what seem to be competitive quotes for work, those homeowners are often pressured into agreeing to have the work done — and, into making a substantial downpayment, police say.

Although work on the project may commence quickly, the quality of the work is often subpar and the job remains incomplete.

The homeowner may be pressured to make additional payments for the unfinished work. 

Once payment is received, the so-called “contractor” typically disappears, ignoring phone calls and leaving the consumer with driveway damage or an unfinished project, the police said.

“Victims often recount aggressive and pushy encounters with these contractors, who eagerly seek the initial cash deposit,” police said in the release. “The scammers frequently distribute business cards, pamphlets, and rudimentary printed contracts during their door-to-door sales pitch.”

Police said the information given to homeowners says little about the company or its owner or employees.

Research often reveals a lack of any official online presence or registration with local chambers of commerce, Better Business Bureau, or similar entities.

Phone numbers for the contract appear functional for a brief period — to secure a deal with homeowners — but later are disconnected or calls go unanswered.

“It is important homeowners remain vigilant against these scams to protect themselves and their property,” police said.

There are steps consumers can take to protect themselves, police said, including seeking recommendations from friends and trusted sources and getting multiple written estimates.

Consumers should also ensure the contractor is insured before initiating work and check references of past jobs.

Other steps police recommended include avoiding cash deals and being leery of unsolicited offers over the phone or at the door.

Consumers should also be aware of and understand the scope of any work being undertaken.

If city property is damaged as a result of the work, the homeowner can be held liable.

It is also advised that consumers take photos — before, during and after a job — and also consider photos of contractor vehicles and licence plates if something seems suspicious.

Consumers are advised also to get details such as the work requested and agreed to, start/finish dates, exact cost and payment schedule in writing.

They should also demand a receipt for payment and guarantee/warranty information.

More information can be found via Consumer Protection Ontario and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.