Fraud Watch

The weather is getting nicer and renovations are on homeowner's minds. Be careful and don't become a victim of home renovation fraud.

• Avoid contractors who knock on your door to tell you they just happen to be in the area doing some work and can give you a "special price".

• Be wary if they promise a discount if you allow them "to advertise our work". The same offer will probably be made to everyone they speak with.

• Be careful of contractors who quote a price without seeing the job.

• Be on guard of the contractor that demands a large down payment "to buy materials". Most reputable contractors maintain charge accounts with their suppliers.

• Be suspicious of those who conduct "free inspections" of your home and then suggest repairs.

• If you do have some work done, do a little homework, by asking around. The best way to find a contractor is through satisfied customers. See if your neighbours or friends have had similar work done. Ask them if they were happy with the work they had done and then go over and inspect it yourself.

• Large building supply and hardware stores may do some work, or have names of contractors that they can recommend.

• Do not pay any money until the home renovation contract is completed unless the contractor holds a provincial business licence (not the same as a city licence) from Alberta Government Services. Contractors are required to post a surety bond as part of the requirements to obtain a provincial business licence. If the contractor does not produce a provincial business licence, then pay for the renovations after the work has been completed.

The Medicine Hat Police Service Community Resource Unit has an excellent information pamphlet called, "Home Renovation Fraud" put out by the Heads Up Program that will provides all the information you need to know to prevent a home renovation fraud. Their website is www.heads-up.ca

More information on other Schemes and Scams on our website.

For all emergencies – Call 9-1-1