Police Warn Of Local Home Repair Scam

Los Altos Police say if uninvited, unlicensed contractors show up to your door - soliciting to do repair work - there’s a high likelihood they’re going to commit home repair fraud.

Elderly homeowners are frequently the targets of this scam, because police say the elderly often have a willingness to trust that the suggested work is necessary, and the work will be completed properly.

Police have issued specific information regarding these scams:

Common Types of Home Repair Fraud Include:

• Roofing repair
• Driveway sealing or pressure washing
• Automobile repair

Often times, police say money will be exchanged up-front and then the repairman will simply never return. Other times, a small amount of work will be done and the project will be left unfinished, or the repairman will attempt to obtain more money from the homeowner to complete the work.

Tips to Prevent Becoming a Victim:

• If residents are in need of home repair, they should seek out licensed contractors
• Get more than one estimate in order to better gauge how much the repair work should cost
• Any person who provides work with a combined cost of labor and materials over $500 is required to have a contractor’s license
• Write down the contractor’s license number and verify it through the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov
• Make sure the contractor is insured and bonded
• Never feel pressured to sign a contract for repair work
• Never pay the full amount at the beginning of the job. Instead pay a small deposit if required and pay in installments as the work gets completed.

It is unlawful for contractors to solicit services door to door in Los Altos, according to police.

If you observe or are approached by a suspicious person or solicitor, you’re asked to contact the Los Altos Police Department immediately at (650) 947-2770.

The department wants to remind residents that prompt reporting may help stop crimes before they are committed.

-image via ShutterStock