The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is proactively warning residents of questionable paving contractors that have previously surfaced in past years.
There are several reports being made to police again this year regarding this issue. As a refresher please remember that it appeared that municipal by-laws may not have been followed by the contractors.
The OPP would like to remind people to beware of possible fraudulent companies. Here are some quick tips:
- Don’t rush into a deal. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is
- Be sure to get it in writing. Don’t sign a contract without an expert opinion
- Be suspicious when someone asks you for money before the work is started
- Do your research and ask for references. A good company will be registered with the Better Business Bureau
- Check the Canadian Anti-Faud Center for possible current frauds at Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca)
If you believe you have been the victim of a fraud or would be interested in information on safeguarding yourself, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-(888)-495-8501 or by visiting www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
(Richard Evans)