Sheriff's Office Warns Of Home Repair Scams

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be cautious regarding home improvement scams. During warmer months, groups of con-artists that are often referred to as traveling criminals, make their way to McHenry County and target homeowners, often senior citizens, and offer services that end up being subpar and require the homeowner to spend hundreds of dollars to repair, according to a news release from the sheriff's office.

Recently, an elderly homeowner in unincorporated Cary received a knock on the door and a person offered to "Flex Seal" her driveway for a "bargain deal" but did not quote a specific price, according to a sheriff's office news release. The men, who are described as being Hispanic and in their 50s, did not quote a specific price and, when the job was done, demanded $6,000.

They were driving a blue pickup truck and a white truck with the "Flex Seal" in the back. Neither trucks had any other identifiable markings.

Here are some tips to follow to help protest yourself from scammers:

• Professional contractors will have clearly marked business decals and markings on their vehicles, and will provide you with a detailed written estimate and proof of insurance
• We encourage you to ask for three references and follow-up by contacting them
• Check with your local chamber of commerce and the Better Business Bureau for reviews on the company and the owner to see if there are any negative reviews
• Ask your trusted friends and family for referral suggestions
• Wait at least three days before committing to a company

And residents are reminded that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is a scam. And they are encouraged to contact their local police department if they have concerns.

Residents that reside in the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction can call 815-338-3144.