Renovators beware: Travelling con men

Jennifer DukeDecember 7, 2020

Those keen to get their property renovated or updated through the spring period are being warned to stay vigilant about the labour they choose by nationals member for Lowan, Hugh Delahunty.

“Spring can be a great time to renovate and maintain your home but look out for travelling con men, who prey on homeowners with cheap deals for odd jobs that you may not even need,” Delahunty said.

Today-only deals are one of the techniques that Consumer Affairs Victoria and Crime Stoppers Victoria are pushing an awareness about, that often pressure home owners into making poor decisions.

“Travelling con men become much more active as spring arrives and homeowners start looking at ways to fix and upgrade their homes.  They door-knock for work such as painting, roof restoration, driveway work and tree-lopping and put you under pressure to agree to get the work done immediately. Sometimes they even drive you to an ATM to get payment up-front,” he warned.

Jennifer Duke

Jennifer Duke was a property writer at Property Observer

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