Drive sealing scam

By Melissa Grant
BOGUS asphalt layers are targeting vulnerable driveway owners in Pakenham.
Police are warning residents about a group of men who pose as council workers offering cheap asphalting, but demand thousands of dollars when the job is done.
The men speak with an English accent and wear reflective vests, saying that they have leftover material from a nearby job.
Senior Sergeant Alan McCarthy of Pakenham Police urged residents to be wary of the scam, one of many happening across Australia.
“They will target the elderly and people who are gullible,” he said.
“And they will even insist on driving them (victims) to the bank to get the money out.”
Police say the men start work on the driveway before agreeing on a specific price and then demanding thousands for the poor jobs they do.
The men tend to operate in pairs or groups of up to five and drive around in utes with no business names on them.
Sen Sgt McCarthy urged residents to protect themselves.
“Anyone coming to your door and offering services – whether it be roofing, guttering, asphalt, concreting driveways – ask them for identification,” he said.
The group has also targeted people living in Geelong, Ballarat and Colac, according to police.
Cardinia Shire communications manager Paul Dunlop said the council wasn’t aware of the bogus asphalting team but urged homeowners to be wary.
“This area has been targeted in the past by bogus operators and people need to beware,” Mr Dunlop said.
“The council would not offer left over materials to the public in this manner.
“Our workers wear uniforms and use council vehicles, both of which are marked with the Cardinia Shire logo.”
Police have urged residents to request a full quote in writing from door-to-door salespeople – including an ABN number – and ensure they are happy with the price quoted before any work starts.
Residents who suspect a worker isn’t legitimate can refuse their offer and report them to Consumer Affairs on 1300 558 181 or itinerant.traders@justice.vic.gov.au
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of the asphalt scam should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au