We've had several people report that they have been approached by people to repair/repave their driveways. It was reported in one case that the "contractor" approached them with an offer to repair the driveway for $60. According to the complaint, they failed to complete the job and then demanded $2800 from the home owner. They made threats to put a lien on the house and asked for the owners bank account number. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES GIVE THEM THIS INFORMATION. If you are approached, identifiy the name of the company. Get license plate numbers off the their vehicles. If they are on you property and harrassing you, or just refusing to leave, please call 911 and get a squad out.
If you are approached by anyone to make repairs to your home or property, do not sign anything or allow them to start any repairs without first confirming that they are legitimate. Go on line and look for a website, or other advertising for the company. Call the company to verify that the people who approached you actually work for them. Ask for references from other customers and check those references out. Take a look at their previous work and talk with previous customers. Was the work completed on time and done for the price that was agreed upon?
Make sure you have a written agreement that specifically spells-out what work you have agreed to, exactly how much it is going to cost and when it is to be completed. Do not pay them up front for the work. A legitimate contractor should have enough financial resources to do the work and then be paid if the work is done satisfactorily. Some companies may want a deposit before starting work. If they demand full payment before they start, do not do business with them.
Remember, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
If you've been approached by someone you believe is not legitimate, please contact your Crime Prevention Specialist.
For questions, contact:
Don Greeley, Crime
Prevention Specialist
Minneapolis Police Department, 3rd Precinct
(612) 673-3482
donald.greeley@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
Carla Nielson, Crime
Prevention Specialist
Franklin Safety Center, 1201 E. Franklin Ave.
(612) 871-8090
carla.nielson@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
John Baumann, Crime
Prevention Specialist
Midtown Safety Center, 2949 Chicago Ave. S.
(612) 825-6138
john.baumann@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
To Protect With Courage
To Serve With Compassion
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