Canadian winters can wreak havoc on residential driveways, sidewalks, house foundations and chimneys. Cracking concrete, raised surfaces and salt damage may prompt homeowners to consider repairs, replacements and other home renovations.
The public should be aware of driveway and concrete scammers who often approach homeowners unsolicited, using deceptive tactics such as overpromising, underquoting and ultimately failing to deliver on their commitments. These scammers typically operate door to door, offering paving or resurfacing services. While presenting seemingly competitive quotes, they often convince homeowners to agree to a deal and demand a substantial cash down payment on the spot.
Although initial work may begin quickly, the quality is often subpar, and the job remains unfinished. The homeowner may then be pressured into making additional payments. Once payment is received, the so-called “contractor” typically disappears, ignores phone calls and leaves the homeowner with a damaged or incomplete driveway.
Victims often describe aggressive and pushy encounters with these individuals, who are eager to collect a deposit. Scammers frequently distribute business cards, pamphlets and generic printed contracts during their door-to-door sales pitch. Notably, they obscure the identity of the contractor, workers and company. Follow-up research often reveals little or no online presence, and no registration with the local chamber of commerce, Better Business Bureau or similar organizations. The phone number provided is often only temporarily active—used to secure the deal before being disconnected or left unanswered, severing the homeowner’s only point of contact.
Homeowners should remain vigilant to protect themselves and their property.
Consumer Protection Tips When Hiring a Home Contractor
Get recommendations from people you trust. Ensure the contractor has valid insurance before any work begins. Obtain multiple written estimates. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Check references from previous jobs. Avoid cash deals. Be cautious of unsolicited offers by phone or at the door. Understand the scope of the work. If a scammer damages city property, you may be held civilly responsible for repairs. Take photos before, during and after the work. If anything seems suspicious, also consider photographing contractor vehicles and licence plates.
Put It on Paper
Work requested and agreed upon. Start and finish dates. Exact cost of the project. Payment schedule (e.g. 10 per cent deposit at the start; final payment upon satisfactory completion). A written receipt for all payments. Guarantee/warranty information, if applicable.
For more information, visit:
Consumer Protection Ontario
ontario.ca/page/your-rights-when-starting-home-renovations-or-repairs Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca