Nanaimo RCMP have issued an alert about alleged fraudsters offering home and yard services in Vancouver Island communities.
In handyman frauds, homeowners are approached with offers for such services as roofing, gutter, driveway or paving work.
“The standard ploy is to do shoddy work, demand money up front and not complete their work,” said Reserve Const. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
Police said the activity is “putting a damper on the holidays” for many people, with homeowners in the West Shore, Sidney and Victoria losing thousands of dollars. Reports suggest four or more men could be involved, police said.
A homeowner in south Nanaimo contacted police after they were approached on Dec. 15. Police said that offer, which was declined by the homeowner, involved a white man with an Irish accent.
If you are approached, RCMP said, do not accept any offers for yard work or repairs and report the contact to your closest police jurisdiction.
Call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 with any information.
