Orange City, Iowa — The Sioux County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be cautious of summer “home improvement” scams that have been circulating around Sioux County and the surrounding area.
In one recent Sioux County incident, a suspect offered to paint a building on a farm property. The suspect then claimed to have run out of paint and said they would be back the following day to finish the job, but wanted to be paid that day. After receiving payment for the full job, the subjects left and never completed the job and left the building in sub-par condition, according to Sioux County authorities.
They tell us this is a common scam that typically involves people from out of the area going “door-to-door,” attempting to solicit work in paving, painting, roofing, landscaping and other outdoor tasks. The subjects typically perform sub-par work for a higher than normal rate, or don’t complete the job.
The Sheriff’s office says it is a good idea to ask for references and do a check on them before agreeing to have any work done. They also recommend getting a written estimate and telling them you will get back to them; and seeking bids from local companies before granting them permission to start — in order to compare prices.
Sioux County authorities tell us that the best advice is to know who you are dealing with. In many cases, they say you are safer dealing with a contractor that has local ties to the community. They tell us that if you are in doubt, don’t agree to any services. If the company pressures you or begins work without your permission, contact your local law enforcement agency.
