Beware of Door-to-Door Driveway Repair Scams
Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) is warning Saskatchewan residents about door-to-door driveway repair scams. Some salespeople may not be licensed or may use leftover materials that result in low quality work.
Check for a license
If a salesperson is coming to your door wanting to pave your driveway, they need to be licensed under the Direct Sellers Act. You can check if a salesperson is licensed on https://fcaa.gov.sk.ca/fcaa411. Licensed salespersons are regulated to ensure that consumers are protected from harmful practices.
How the scam works
Scammers often come, unlicensed, door-to-door and offer “on the spot” driveway repair using leftover materials from other projects. The driveway may look good initially, but may crumble and crack as it dries.
Red flags
Be cautious if a salesperson:
- makes the price sound “too good to be true”;
- pressures you into buying immediately or claim that you’ll “lose a deal”; or
- asks you to write a blank cheque.
Keep yourself safe
When dealing with a door-to-door salesperson, make sure that:
- everything is documented in writing, that you agree to the expectations of the work, that a price is set and there is a timeframe of when work is to be completed;
- you ask questions when you do not understand something;
- you are not pressured into buying on the spot;
- you do not write them a blank cheque;
- check to see if they have property damage and liability insurance; and
- you check if they are listed on the Better Business Bureau directory (or call 1-888-352-7601). If they are listed, read their customer reviews to make sure you are hiring someone who does work you like.
If consumers have questions about hiring a door-to-door contractor, they can find more information at http://fcaa.gov.sk.ca/consumers-investors-pension-plan-members/consumers/consumers-of-goods-and-services/tips-for-driveway-repairs, call toll free at 1-877-880-5550, or contact by email at [email protected].