Council Member Robert Holden is advising seniors to be on the lookout for scammers posing as home repair companies, following his office receiving several complaints about the matter in recent weeks.
Holden, who represents the neighborhoods of Middle Village and Ridgewood, said that the scammers are often presenting themselves with an Irish accent and offer roofing, window, sidewalk, and driveway repairs frequently alleging to have noticed damage while working on a neighbor’s property.
Holden said that he has been in contact with Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks, the NYPD and local precincts in order to tackle the issue.
“While the roofing and home repair scams are not new to our area, the recent escalation in fraudulent activities has seen seniors defrauded of tens of thousands of dollars,” Holden said. “I’ve asked the NYPD and the DA’s office to take this matter seriously, to catch those committing these crimes, and to ensure the victims’ money is returned. I will not stand for this in my district.”
Holden is proposing new legislation that would require individuals and companies offering services by going door-to-door to obtain a solicitor license. This bill would provide peace of mind for residents by ensuring that only verified and legitimate businesses can legally sell services.
The NYPD’s Crime Prevention Section advises residents to never open their doors to someone they are suspicious of; to research any company offering services; and avoid disclosing personal financial information or making cash payments. Residents are urged to call 911 immediately if approached by suspicious individuals.
