Police: Driveway Scammers Are Out In Full Force

CHELMSFORD, MA -- It's that time of year again. The driveway scammers are out in full force.

"We have recently had two cases of elderly residents being swindled for large amounts of money to have their driveways repaired,'' Chelmsford police posted.

Police say the scam works this way: A man knocks on your door and says he has extra asphalt, extra roofing materials, paint or other home repair materials and is willing to pave your driveway, patch a roof, paint or perform other household repairs at a discounted price.

His high pressure approach confuses and intimidates. You are not getting a deal, you are being scammed.

If you agree to let them perform the work, here is what likely happens. Men and equipment suddenly appear and begin “working” on your driveway, roof or other area in or around your home.

At some point, the conman claims a mistake was made and you owe thousands more than the original price. He threatens that if you refuse to pay, the “work” will cease. You may be escorted to the bank, to withdraw money. When you realize the scam you try to cancel the check only to learn it was cashed within minutes of it being written.

Paving, roofing and other similar scams like this occur regularly in Massachusetts and increase during the spring and summer months. The perpetrators target senior citizens and are well known to police across the country. Criminal charges vary by state but are commonly filed.

Residents should be aware not to fall prey to this. If someone knocks on your door and states that your driveway needs repair, please decline.

Instead, call the police. Please spread the word to your friends and families. Keep a watchful eye out for your elderly neighbors.

Please call your local police about any suspicious individuals or activity.