Home Repair & Roofing Scam Warning
The Albany Police Department is alerting our residents about an ongoing home repair scam targeting homeowners across the Bay Area. These organized groups, commonly known as “traveling contractor” scammers, are actively operating in our region.
How the Scam Typically Works
Unsolicited Contact
Suspects often approach homes uninvited, knocking on doors or stopping residents outside. They usually claim they were “working in the neighborhood” and noticed an issue with your property.
The “Urgent” Problem
They warn of supposed damage to a roof, chimney, driveway, or masonry and offer a quick, low-cost fix (often $150–$200) to gain access to the property.
Intentional Damage
Once on the roof or property, scammers may deliberately cause damage—such as removing shingles, loosening bricks, or cutting roofing materials—to make the problem appear severe.
Escalating Costs and Pressure
Residents are then told the damage is extensive and requires immediate repairs. Victims are pressured to pay large upfront costs for materials, frequently in cash. There have been reported losses of up to several thousand dollars for this type of scam in neighboring jurisdictions.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Unsolicited door-to-door offers for roofing, paving, or masonry work
- Claims of a “today only” price or urgent safety hazard
- Requests for cash payments or checks made out to an individual instead of a licensed company
- Out-of-state license plates or temporary/magnetized business signs on trucks
- Inability or refusal to provide a valid California contractor’s license number
- High-pressure tactics that discourage seeking a second opinion
How to Protect Yourself
Always verify contractor credentials through the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), avoid making immediate decisions under pressure, and never allow unsolicited workers onto your roof or property for inspections. If you feel threatened or suspect fraudulent activity, contact the Albany Police Department Immediately.
Please share this alert with family members, neighbors, and especially vulnerable individuals who may be targeted by these scams.
The Albany Police Department would like to remind Albany residents that information about crime and other police activity can be found on the Albany Crime Graphics portal at albany.crimegraphics.com. For questions, comments, or assistance with this site, please email albanypolice@albanyca.gov.
Albany Police Department
Address: 1000 San Pablo Ave.
Phone: (510) 525‐7300 / Emergencies: 911
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