Newton Police Warn Against Home Improvement Scam

NEWTON, MA — The police department is warning the community against a home improvement scam.

The department recently received a report from a resident saying they were approached at their home by a person claiming to be with a company called SOS Roofing and Masonry in which the person told the homeowner they had a broken chimney cap that could be replaced for $800. After making the repair, the price was increased to $25,000.

The police emphasized that these types of predatory operations tend to target the elderly, and the homeowner in this instance was an older citizen.

“Often taking the form of a paving, roofing, masonry or driveway repairs, the scammer will start with a ‘small project,’” the department said in a statement. “They will then pressure victims into additional repairs/costs. These additional repairs are often caused by the scammer.”

Police added that these scammers tend to have brand new websites and social media pages, as well as a new business certificate or no business certificate at all.

Residents can report potential scams by contacting 617-796-2123.