BOSTON, MA — Police are warning residents to be cautious of traveling contractors as warmer weather approaches, with elderly and disabled residents often targeted by home improvement scams.
Small jobs can quickly escalate into expensive projects, with victims pressured to pay thousands of dollars for poor or incomplete repairs, according to the Boston Police Department.
Some suspects enter the United States under programs that do not allow them to work during their 90-day stay, police said.
Many identified individuals have traveled from Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Most home repair projects require permits, and residents should check with their local city or town hall, police said.
Some companies lack local business certificates, were recently registered with the state and operate newly created websites with glowing reviews.
Scammers use door-to-door solicitation with paper flyers featuring generic business names such as A1 Paving or City & Town Paving, police said.
They claim to have “leftover materials” from a nearby job and offer discounted prices.
High-pressure tactics are used to exaggerate the need for immediate repairs.
Scammers often expand the scope of work, claiming additional costly repairs are needed after the initial job.
Some use threatening or intimidating behavior toward homeowners and ask that checks be written to an individual rather than the company name.
Police recommend treating any unknown person approaching about home repairs as a potential scammer.
Residents should obtain at least two estimates from reputable contractors who carry proper insurance and licenses, obtain required permits and can provide references and warranties for their work.
Contractors should be verified as registered Home Improvement Contractors through the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
Anyone who believes they have been victimized should contact their local police department and provide as much information as possible, including descriptions of vehicles and license plates.
