Police in Berkeley are warning residents, especially seniors and their families, about an aggressive home repair scam involving traveling crews offering fraudulent roofing and masonry work.
The Berkeley Police Department said the suspects typically work in small groups, arrive in white pickup trucks and wear high-visibility vests to appear legitimate.
According to the police, the suspects often knock on doors claiming they were working nearby and have noticed urgent damage to a roof or chimney that needs a quick, low-cost repair.
Authorities said once on the roof, the scammers may intentionally cause damage to create a larger problem, then demand thousands of dollars in upfront cash for additional repairs.
In recent cases, victims have lost between $10,000 and $450,000, police said.
“This is a predatory crime that exploits the trust of our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Detective Sergeant Jeremy Lathrop. “We urge all residents to talk to their elderly family members and neighbors about these tactics. Do not let anyone on your roof without a verified contract and license.”
Suspicious activity can be reported to Berkeley police at 510-981-5900.