Residents warned about scam

BOWEN residents are being warned about a scam operating in the region.

Police believe the people involved are approaching homeowners and tenants in the Bowen area and claiming they have leftover road base from another job.

They are then offering to use this road base to complete work on driveways in exchange for cash.

Police said they had received credible information that the work the people carried out was often of poor quality.

Police believe the people are travelling down the east coast of Queensland offering their services, and they may have been in Bowen before.

The people involved are reportedly travelling in a silver or light blue Toyota Landcruiser.

Police are reminding the public that if an offer sounds too good to be true, then it most likely is.

It is recommended residents ensure any work on homes is completed by licensed and reputable tradespeople and payment is not given until work is complete.

Police have provided tips to help residents avoid scams: • Seek more information from independent sources such as family, friends, neighbours, newspaper advertisements or past clients.

• Reputable businesses will be happy to provide you with full contact details so you can follow up on their services. • Obtain a written quote.

• Seek an agreement with the person offering the service that money will be paid at the satisfactory completion of the job and not upfront.

• Regulatory authorities who are responsible for licences and the regulation of various trades such as plumbing, building and electrical etc, should be contacted to ascertain if the handyman is licensed.

• If the offer turns out to be safe and good for you, you can always say yes later.

Any residents who may have been in contact with the tradespeople operating in the Bowen area should phone Policelink 131 444 or the Office of Fair Trade on 13 74 68.