Police Warn Public of High-Pressure Roofing and Driveway Repair Scams in Burlington
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is warning residents about an increase in home repair scams targeting homeowners in Burlington.
Police have received multiple reports of individuals going door-to-door offering unsolicited services, particularly involving roofing and driveway repairs. The suspects use high-pressure sales tactics and often claim urgent repairs are needed to prevent damage.
These individuals frequently demand immediate payment, sometimes at inflated prices, for work that is substandard, incomplete, poorly performed, or never completed at all.
How the Scam Works
- Suspects knock on doors offering “limited-time” deals for roofing or driveway work
- Claim to have leftover materials from nearby jobs
- Pressure homeowners into agreeing to immediate repairs
- Request large upfront payments in cash or by electronic transfer
- Perform poor-quality work or fail to complete the job entirely
- Become difficult or impossible to contact after payment
In some cases, the suspects misrepresent their credentials or falsely claim affiliation with legitimate companies.
Warning Signs
- You receive unsolicited offers for home repairs
- The contractor insists the work must be done immediately
- You are asked for full payment upfront
- There is no written contract or documentation is unclear
- The price seems significantly lower or higher than expected
- The company cannot provide verifiable references or proof of insurance
How to Protect Yourself
The HRPS recommends residents take the following precautions when hiring a contractor:
- Do not agree to on-the-spot contracts or services
- Obtain multiple quotes from reputable, established contractors
- Verify business licences, insurance, and references
- Never pay the full amount upfront
- Take time to research the company before committing
- Discuss major home repair decisions with a trusted friend or family member
What to Do
If you believe you have been targeted or victimized by this type of scam, report it to the Halton Regional Police Service immediately.
You can also report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online through Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Description of Suspects/Vehicles
Police are actively investigating and asking residents to report individuals or vehicles canvassing neighbourhoods offering repair services that appear suspicious.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2316.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through Halton Crime Stoppers.
Media Inquiries:
Halton Regional Police Service
Media Relations
Phone: 905-825-4899
Email: corpcomm@haltonpolice.ca