Door-to-Door Scams are an issue that develop time and again. One of the latest concerns regards a paving company offering to reseal driveways at an exorbitant amount of money for the project.
The individual sealing driveways in question did pull out a business licence for the Town of Carlyle, which has spurred the discussion surrounding whether or not something more can be done when issuing a licence. As well as to remind people that they must be wary of door-to-door sales.
“We’ve been made aware of possible scams going on in the area and people need to be diligent when dealing with door-to-door sales,” Steve Schultz, President of the Chamber of Commerce, explained. “Ask for references and phone numbers, check them out because if they have a business licence it doesn’t necessarily mean they are legit[imate].”
A short letter of information reminding people to be wary of door-to-door scams has been created by a member of the Chamber of Commerce saying that “residents and businesses should be aware that town ordinance requires door-to-door solicitors to obtain a license and should produce the town-issued permit upon request while conducting door-to-door solicitations. A town issued business license does not mean that the business has been checked or is reputable.”
Each individual approached must do their due diligence in checking out the business before paying them for goods or services.
It was also noted in the informational letter that homeowners should ask the salesperson to produce a location for a local office that can be checked as well as a contact number to call the main office.
The informational letter also advises people that salespersons coming to their door may not actually be trying to sell anything and are actually “casing your home – looking for computers or other valuables lying near quick escape routes, checking if you have barking dogs, or if there are signs of a security system.”
If you feel as though you are being targeted in a door-to-door scam then ask the individual to leave, if they refuse to leave you may call the RCMP to request an officer come to escort the person off of your property.
If the individual has given you any information, keep it all as it may help to identify the individual for RCMP to check on and see that their business practices are legitimate. Also write down a description of the individual and their vehicle if they have one for the same purpose, including writing down the licence plate number.
In regards to who the Town issues licences to, councillors were unsure how to proceed but would look into it. They were concerned that by asking for references they receive relatives and good friends of the individual who are in on the scam.
So, before hiring anyone attempt to find out if they are a reputable company. Check the internet, ask for a local office and number for the office, and if you are suspicious of a scam taking place contact the RCMP.
