Be Careful of Landscaping Scammers, District Attorney Warns

The Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office warned residents about a rise in yard maintenance scams targeting elderly homeowners Friday.

The rise in temperatures also means a rise in scam artists who often show up unannounced, offer to do yard work, ask for money up front and then leave without actually doing the work, the district attorney's office said.

The district attorney's office said residents should watch out for landscapers who show up without being called, offer unusually low prices, and want money up front.

District attorney's officials recommend finding reliable gardeners through friends or neighbors. They also propose calling references and gardeners before asking them to come over to do yard work.

The district attorney's office has partnered with the to make a public service announcement to alert residents about false tree trimmers, gardeners and landscapers.