It’s been a while since we’ve heard reports of this scam, (back in February 2018 there were a number of reports), but we’ve just heard of a scammer targeting a concrete contractor for work to be done on listed homes. The scam works this way; the scammer asks for a bid for work on a home that is listed or was recently listed, then asks the contractor/company to make a payment with the promise they will pay them back.
Fortunately, the scam was unsuccessful because the contractor called the two listing agents for the two addresses the scammer provided, and both informed him that no work was to be done, and no payments should be made.
One thought is that perhaps it’s a seasonal scam as the weather gets nicer and more home projects are completed. Regardless, please be aware of this scam and encourage any companies and contractors to call you (as the listing agent) or the owner of the property to independently confirm that a bid was requested.
Have a safety alert to share? Please email taylor@boirealtors.com.
Updated on 3/12/2020
We’ve since heard from a general contractor who receives these types of scams via text message and email quite frequently. He had a few tips to share on how to spot this scam:
- The number is usually not a local area code.
- The communication follows a particular format. The scammer usually starts by providing a name and asking if he does specific services, which is an obvious tell as his services are clearly listed on his website. He’s also noticed a pattern of them using double question marks following their questions.
- They will often claim to be out of state or out of the area and just purchased the home.
- They usually don’t want to talk on the phone, and if they do call, no one is on the other line.
- When he uses the word “scam” when communicating with them, typically all communication will stop.
If you are a contractor or service provider and you have a suspicion that the person asking you for a bid is a scammer, contact the owner of the property or listing agent to confirm that work is being requested.
Below are some screenshot examples that he shared with us.
