Three charged in renovation scheme that targeted seniors, cost victims more than $500,000

A lengthy investigation into numerous reports of home renovation fraud in the Region of Waterloo has lead to charges for three men.

Police said they began receiving reports of the scheme, targeting seniors in the region, beginning in the summer of 2025. In some of those reports, the victim said they were approached by a man that was posing as a law enforcement officer in order to further the fraud scheme.

It’s reported that the scheme cost victims in the region upwards of $500,000, while investigators have also linked the home renovation fraud scheme to similar scams reported across Canada.

On July 8, police arrested three men in connection to their investigation.

Police note that renovation fraud schemes like this are often linked to organized criminal networks that are conducting their activities across multiple jurisdictions. It’s alleged that these criminal networks will see individuals travel from outside the country into Canada, moving between communities to target homeowners, typically seniors, with high-pressure contracts and deceptive sales tactics.

RELATED: Police sending reminders, warnings of ongoing call-based fraud scam

As the investigation continues alongside law enforcement partners across Canada, regional police have released a few safety reminders to protect yourself against renovation fraud.

• Obtain multiple written quotes before committing to any work
• Verify the contractor’s credentials, references, and business history. Do not rely solely on what you find on the company website or social media
• Ensure a detailed written contract is in place before any work begins
• Be cautious of contractors who use high-pressure sales tactics or demand immediate decisions
• Never pay the full cost of a project upfront, especially if the contractor approached you unsolicited. Consider making payments in stages as work is completed and verified

Anyone who believes they may have been victimized by these individuals in a home renovation fraud is asked to contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service at 519-570-9777, extension 4496.