Neighborhood Scams

(Community Matters) from APD thru the NUNA list serve

“Residents and business owners in the Central West and North Central areas of Austin should be aware of a recent crime trend in the area: A male posing as a handyman is approaching residents and business owners soliciting yard work and other small construction projects such as painting, fence repair, deck installations, etc….

• The male is asking for money up front. In some cases, he continues to ask for more money to cover alleged material costs and labor. Sometimes he overcharges for a completed job. In other cases, he receives payment up front and never completes the work. The male is targeting the older residents.Residents and business owners are reminded:

  ·       Never pay up front for any work until it is completed. A legitimate company can purchase their own materials without charging you before work begins.

  ·       Get a service contract in writing, with an itemized listing of material and labor cost.

  ·       Before work is started, contact the Better Business Bureau and check the complaint history of any company.

  ·       If work is being performed by an individual, ask to see Identification and verify contact phone numbers and addresses if possible. “