As warmer weather approaches, the Hamilton Police Service is reminding residents to be cautious when hiring contractors for home repairs and renovations. Each spring and summer, police see an increase in reports involving home renovation scams, where fraudsters target homeowners with offers for quick repairs or discounted work.

These scams often involve individuals going door-to-door claiming they are working in the neighbourhood and have noticed a problem with a roof, driveway, or foundation. While the offer may appear convenient or inexpensive, victims can be left paying thousands of dollars for poor-quality, incomplete, or unnecessary work.

Hamilton Police are encouraging residents to be aware of the warning signs and take steps to protect themselves before agreeing to any home repair services.

Common warning signs of renovation scams

• Unsolicited door-to-door offers – Someone claims they are working nearby and noticed damage to your property.
• Prices that seem too good to be true – Scammers may offer a deeply discounted price or say they have leftover materials from another job.
• Sudden price increases – Once work begins, additional “serious problems” are discovered and the price rises significantly.
• High-pressure sales tactics – Victims are urged to make an immediate decision or pay on the spot.
• Unmarked vehicles or unknown workers – Workers arrive in vehicles without company logos or park away from the home.
• Mismatched company names – The name on the contract does not match the name on payment requests.
• Fake websites or online reviews – Fraudsters may create convincing online advertisements or social media pages to appear legitimate.
• Poor-quality or unfinished work – The job is rushed, incomplete, or abandoned, and warranties may be invalid.

How residents can protect themselves

Hamilton Police recommend taking the following precautions before hiring a contractor:

• Get multiple estimates – Obtain at least three written quotes from different companies before committing to work.
• Research the company – Look for reviews, verify the business address, and ask for references.
• Verify credentials – Ask for proof of insurance, licensing, and previous work.
• Avoid large upfront payments – Never pay the full amount before work is completed. Limit deposits and tie payments to project milestones.
• Get a written contract – Ensure the contract clearly outlines the scope of work, cost, timeline, and warranty information.
• Take your time – Legitimate contractors will not pressure you to make an immediate decision.

Residents are reminded that if an offer sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized by a renovation scam is encouraged to report it to Hamilton Police.

Reports can be made online at:
https://hamiltonpolice.on.ca/report-crime/online-reporting

Residents can also contact the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.

For more information about consumer protection related to home renovations in Ontario, visit:
https://www.ontario.ca/page/consumer-protection-ontario