The Waverly Police Department wants to caution residents about home improvement scams that recently occurred to at least two city residents. On March 23, a local homeowner reported that two men offered to put roof sealer on her roof. They agreed upon a price and after the work was done, they attempted to overcharge the resident. They also damaged a vehicle parked near the home. Johnny Lovell, Jr. (27) from Lebanon, and a 17 year old juvenile from Antioch were charged with Unlawful Actions by Home Improvement Services Provider over $500 in this case.

In the second case, the same Juvenile was charged with attempted Theft after trying to charge a homeowner for work that was not done to her roof. In this case, the suspects told the homeowner that they had put a roof on their home a year earlier and were returning to do maintenance on the roof. When their actions raised their suspicions, the police were notified and the suspects were stopped leaving the area.

“These suspects were trying to take advantage of homeowners and were not engaged in any legitimate work. If anyone else may have done business with these suspects, they should contact the Police Department,” said Chief of Police David Daniel.

The Police Department offers the following tips to help protect yourself from con artists:

Watch for scams at your doorstep, where someone shows up and says your driveway needs repaving, or your house needs new shingles – and they “just happen to have materials left over” at a big discount! Just say no to a deal that is based on “extra materials,” someone demanding an immediate decision, or a contractor who only accepts cash.

Check out and interview contractors before you sign a contract or pay any money. Request local references and contact them!

Get several written estimates, choose the best, and get a contract in writing (and don’t forget to read it!). Before work begins, agree on a written contract detailing terms including the work to be done, the brand and/or the specifications of the materials to be used, the price, who is responsible for permits, and that all change orders must be in writing.

Avoid paying large sums or the entire job up-front. If you need to make a partial advance payment for materials, make your check out to the supplier and the contractor.

If anyone comes to your door soliciting any home repairs, call the Police Department immediately and an officer will be dispatched to investigate. The direct line to the dispatcher is 296-7792 or dial 911.