Police in New Westminster are warning the public about a “chimney scam” after a senior was targeted by fraudsters.
An “observant and compassionate” resident contacted police out of concern that her 90-year-old neighbour might be the victim of a scam.
Police stopped by the senior’s residence to learn more about what occurred on March 25th.
“The resident shared that two men were soliciting in the neighbourhood with an unmarked vehicle, and approached her about chimney cleaning and sealing services,” reads a release from the department.
The senior told police she had been asked to pay a substantial upfront deposit of $12,000.
We are advising residents to remain alert after an observant and compassionate neighbour called police concerned her 90 year old neighbour may be targeted by fraudsters involved in a chimney scam. https://t.co/CrcZuwGsr1 #NewWest pic.twitter.com/u41ZA1WZKt
— New Westminster Police Department (@NewWestPD) March 27, 2026
“This neighbour is exactly the kind of person I would want living next to my grandparents,” said Cst. Peter Jon. “This is the kind of community New Westminster is, where people look out for and help one another.”
In light of this situation, police are reminding people to do their research when hiring anyone for repairs to your home.
“If you are approached by someone offering unsolicited repairs, do not feel pressured to make a decision. Take time to verify the business and speak with someone you trust. There are several different kinds of scams surrounding chimney inspection and repair ranging from high pressure sales and fraudulent companies to fake claims of major structural damage discovered that requires thousands of dollars in immediate repairs. In many instances, scammers will ask for payment in cash.”
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