Driveway Scammer Reports Rising In Horsham Township

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA —Door-to-door contractors wandering township neighborhoods might be driveway scammers and the Horsham Township Police Department wants residents on the alert.

The police department reported recently an increase in driveway scams and is providing residents with tips on what to look out for and how to protect themselves.

Anyone who believes they've witnessed a driveway scam or have had a “contractor” demand additional money should contact the Horsham Township Police Department.

Driveway scammers have been more prominent in eastern Montgomery County in the past year. Upper Moreland Police reported this summer of the elderly being targeted by three individuals claiming to be from a driveway paving company.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

• Generally, scams are initiated by a “contractor” going door-to-door, claiming they are doing work in the area.
• Sometimes the “contractor” will claim they have extra asphalt from a previous job.
• As soon as the price is agreed upon, they will begin ripping up the driveway.
• No written contract is given, verbal agreement only.
• Will request payment in cash.
• Will claim the job was more difficult than expected and ask for more money.

PROTECT YOURSELF:

• Be wary of any door-to-door contractors.
• Get a written contract for the work.
• Pay through a credit card or a check written to a business.
• Be aware that scam contractors may have legitimate-looking postcards and websites.