Summer Means More Than Pools and Picnics; Larimer County Sheriff’s Department Warns Of Increased Scam Activity!

Before you fill the cooler and grab the beach towels; beware. The Larimer County Sheriff's Office said in a press release earlier today that they have seen an increase in home improvement scams.

The press release specifically mentions an increase in scam activity involving asphalt paving, roofing repairs, brick repair and painting.

Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith reminds residents, in the press release, to be cautious when dealing with a door-to-door salesman for home repairs.

The information from the sheriff's office is just a warning to be on the look out for potential scams. The press release points out that not all door-to-door sales are scams.

Some indicators that you may be dealing with a fraudulent company are:

• arrival in an unmarked truck or van;
• door-to-door salespeople claiming "We've just finished a job nearby and have material left over so we can do your job for half the price;
• high-pressure sales tactics;
• refusal to give you a written estimate, contract or references;
• very low bids; and,
• the ability to "start tomorrow" on your project.

If you think that you may be a victim or have had any dealing's with a suspicious company, Public Information Officer, John Schulz says to contact the Larimer County Sheriff's Office at 970-416-1985 or your local police department.

The number for crime stoppers, a completely unanimous reporting line that occasionally offers cash rewards for information is 970-221-6868.