Ottawa Police warn of door-to-door scams for construction services

Ottawa Police Service has issued an official warning to residents about the increasing scams related to construction and maintenance service offers presented through door-to-door methods, via its account on the “X” platform.
The police explained that some individuals move between homes offering to carry out work such as paving driveways or brickwork at noticeably low prices, in an attempt to lure residents into contracting with them quickly.

Repeated Scam Methods

They pointed out that these operations often follow a similar pattern, where scammers request cash payments in advance, before performing substandard work or disappearing without completing the job.
These methods also rely on creating a sense of urgency among victims, by claiming limited-time offers or excess materials that must be used immediately.

Prevention Recommendations

The police urged residents to take precautionary measures to avoid falling victim to these practices, the most prominent of which are:
Do not rush to make a decision or succumb to pressure
Refrain from paying the full amount before the work is completed
Obtain a written contract that includes clear details
Verify the contractor’s identity and professional record

Enhancing Community Awareness

The police confirmed that these warnings come as part of their efforts to enhance community awareness and reduce financial crimes, noting that such operations specifically target the most vulnerable groups to exploitation.
They emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious activity, amid the increase of these methods that rely on direct deception and exploiting residents’ trust within neighborhoods.