There are groups of transient criminals that pose as door-to-door home repair contractors who rip off homeowners throughout California with painting, roofing, and paving scams. Not every door-to-door solicitor or family-owned business operates in this way; however, the Contractors State License Board urges consumers to be wary and to watch for any of these red flags.

The Suspects
• Often related by family, and solicit door-to-door
• Come across as friendly, but can use high-pressure or scare tactics
• Are reluctant to give an up-front price or provide a written contract, and increase the price after the project is under way or completed
• Demand payments in cash
• Immediately cash checks (sometimes changing the amount before cashing)
• Drive customized newer vehicles with out-of-state license plates
• Use toll-free (800) telephone numbers instead of local numbers
• Have post office boxes or suite numbers instead of actual street addresses
• Target the vulnerable, like elderly or recent immigrants
• Offer complimentary inspections and then offer to fix “problems”

The Scams
• Claim they have left over material from another job at a cheap price
• Claim they’ll use a “sealant” but actually apply a useless, watery liquid that they spray on roofs, fences, or driveways
• Push a few new wood shakes under old roofing shakes and apply a useless oil
• Charge by the can for painting and then exaggerate the amount they say was used

Tips to Avoid Being Scammed
• Watch out for door-to-door solicitations—especially when they want to start work immediately
• Be aware that your contractor must notify you of your right to cancel within three days of signing a contract
• Be a good neighbor and report any suspicious home improvement activity if your neighbor is elderly or otherwise vulnerable
• Get free information from the CSLB, “10 Tips for Making Sure Your Contractor Measures Up.”

If you or a neighbor have hired or been solicited by someone fitting the description of these traveling criminals, please contact the Contractors State License Board at (916) 255-2924.