Wellesley Police Investigate a Chimney Sweeping Scam

The Wellesley Police Department is investigating a scam involving a company performing chimney sweeping services.  Officer Jenny Gonsalves began an investigation on Tuesday June 30, 2009 after receiving a report of the scam from a concerned  Wellesley resident.

The scam began when the victim was called numerous times, unsolicited, over a two week period.  The caller used high pressure sales tactics during these repeated calls..  The tactics included attempting to scare the caller by pointing out the fire dangers of having a dirty chimney, especially with having oil heat.  The caller was given a very low  verbal quote for the chimney sweeping, being told she would receive a considerable "Senior Citizen" discount.  The price quoted was $49.

Once the victim agreed to have the chimney swept, two individuals began the work immediately.  While the workers were there, they began to tell the victim that much more work was needed, including additional parts and labor.  The victim refused to agree to the extra work.  When the workers finished, they informed the victim that they had performed the work anyway, and the bill would now be $2000.  A preliminary review of the work done shows that nothing significant, including sweeping, was actually done.  Additionally, the workers did not clean up, and left trash at the house.

The worker then called the victim and demanded a credit card number be provided to pay for the work.  The workers did not provide a written estimate, a written bill, or any paperwork to the victim at any time during the process.

Fortunately, in this case, the victim contacted the Wellesley Police Department and also stopped payment by contacting their  credit card's  fraud department before the charge went through.

This is the first report the department has taken regarding this particular scam this year.  However, it is very similar to other scams that the department receives reports about.  The most common of these is the driving paving/seal coating scam.  Similar tactics, including a very low quote, is given.  Many times, workers indicate they have 'extra material' from another paving job in the area.  Used oil is then spread over the driveway, not actual paving/seal coating material.  Once the work is completed, the victim is given a much higher bill, and immediate payment is demanded.  After the worker leaves, the victim realizes that nothing has actually been done.

Residents should be very wary of any unsolicited offers of work from workers or callers, especially if any sort of high pressure sales tactics are used and there is no paperwork.  Always demand a written estimate, and written agreement of the work that is to be done beforehand.  Reputable companies will have no problems providing this.  Many times during these scams, elderly residents are targeted.

The Wellesley Police Department aggressively investigates scams of this type, and frequently works with other police departments in doing so.   Please report any suspicious activity or similar events to the Wellesley Police Department.