Gardai have issued a warning to homeowners across the country as a new scam targets a number of people in Co Cork.
According to reports, officers have been made aware of ‘painting scams’ occurring in the southern county which have led to a number of disputes.
From the poor quality of painting, to work ceasing immediately after payment, Sergeant John Kelly of Fermoy Garda Station told people to be wary of those offering to paint sheds and houses.
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Speaking on C103's Cork Today, Sgt Kelly asked the public to be careful about who they allow onto their property to carry out jobs.
“Make sure if you’re getting work done, get it from providers that are well-known and that come recommended,” he said.
Sgt Kelly explained that in a number of cases these service operators are claiming to have completed work for neighbours or other people in the community in order to gain the trust of new customers.
If this is the case, the sergeant advised people to phone said neighbour and find out if they are happy with the work done, to ensure it is legitimate.
“Ensure that you’re getting a proper job done because it’s very hard for the gardaí to enter the situation afterward and try and retrieve the money,” he went on to say.
Sgt Kelly also said that in some cases, the operators are taking money from customers and then refusing to complete the work that was agreed for the payment.
He said when it comes down to it, recommendations are the most reliable way to ensure good quality work will be done.
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