Torontonians, Beware! The Arrival of Spring Also Marks a High Season for Scammers

The Toronto Police Service (TPS) is warning city residents to be cautious about a suspected roofing fraud and impersonation scam that is active across the city.

April 14, 2026: In a news release today, the police advise that this scam involves unsolicited contractors who claim to identify urgent issues with roofs, chimneys, or other exterior structures. Homeowners are then pressured into agreeing to repairs on the spot.

According to police, once the deal is locked in and work begins, the scammers inform the homeowner that they have discovered additional problems with the property that require immediate attention. This additional work, of course, requires more money.

Victims are then “pressured into making multiple payments” for the work.

Things take a darker turn if the homeowner refuses to make these additional payments. The suspects pose as Interpol investigators to reinforce the illusion of a legitimate contracting operation and demand more money. Victims are allegedly told they are under surveillance and instructed not to speak to anyone about the ‘phony’ investigation. Police report that the suspects have directed some victims to make large payments under the pretense of assisting or resolving this supposed investigation.

The police emphasize that no legitimate law enforcement agency, including Interpol, will attend a residence to demand payment or request money as part of an investigation.

In a video detailing the scam, police Det. David Coffey stated, “If someone shows up uninvited and tells you something is urgently wrong with your home, slow down, verify who they are and their credentials before moving forward.”

Watch Out for This Cast of Characters:

On Tuesday, police provided descriptions of several individuals believed to be associated with the roofing scam. The primary contractors are described as male, white, with distinct Irish or Scottish accents. One suspect is noted to have a heavy build, be clean-shaven, have a disfigurement on his left arm, and often wear dark blue clothing with a possible company logo.

Another associated contractor is described as a white male with a red beard and an Irish accent.

The impersonator posing as an Interpol official is described as male, white, tall, and of a medium build. He has been seen wearing a windbreaker, jeans, and a lanyard with what appears to be official identification.

Tips to Protect Yourself:

The police advise residents to remain cautious of unsolicited contractors. “If you don’t know them, ask for their business card and tell them you will get back to them once you are ready. This will give you time to verify their identities and the credentials of their company. If you’re part of an online community group (e.g., on WhatsApp or Signal), consider posting a message to seek advice from others; someone in your group may have had a similar encounter.

Under no circumstances should you make hasty decisions. Take your time. Ask for a list of references, including addresses of homes they have worked on previously. You have every right to request that information.

Homeowners should always obtain multiple independent quotes before finalizing a deal with the contractor they are most satisfied with. Remember, spending a little extra on someone trustworthy or highly recommended is far better than being lured in by a tempting “deal.”

Finally, if this information reaches you too late and you have already had an unpleasant experience with this gang or a similar one, the Toronto Police Service urges you to report it immediately. You can reach the TPS at 416-808-2222 or file an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers online or at 416-222-TIPS (8477).

Be well, and stay safe, Insha’Allah.   

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