Most Edmonton contractors are honest. But every year, homeowners — often seniors — lose money to a handful of predictable scams. Knowing the patterns makes them easy to spot.
The door-knocker “leftover materials” pitch
Someone shows up unsolicited offering a driveway, roof or paving deal because they “have material left over from a job nearby.” It’s a classic. Real contractors are booked out, not cruising neighbourhoods for same-day work. Don’t hire on the spot.
The large up-front deposit
A request for 50% (or full payment) in cash before any work starts is the single biggest red flag. Once paid, the contractor vanishes or stalls. Keep deposits modest and tie payments to completed milestones.
Storm-chasers after hail
Edmonton’s hail season brings out-of-town “roofers” who blow through, do shoddy work, and are gone before problems surface — leaving you with no local warranty. Stick with established local roofers who’ll still be here next spring.
No paper trail
No written contract, no business address, a cell number only, pressure to skip permits, or a push to pay cash to “save the tax” all point the same direction. Skipping permits can also void your home insurance and create problems when you sell.
If something feels off
Slow it down. Verify the Alberta prepaid contractor licence, check Google reviews, and get other quotes. You can report suspected fraud to Service Alberta’s Consumer Investigations Unit. A legitimate contractor will never punish you for doing your homework.