HOOVER, Ala. (WBRC) – Hoover Police are warning the public to stay alert of a seemingly fake pine straw company going door-to-door to scam people.
The police department shared photos of the black SUV and silver SUV they believe are associated with the scam.
Police say two black men and two black women were driving the cars.
Here is how the scheme works. Police say the scammers show up unannounced, claim they have been laying pine straw in the neighborhood, and offer a great price.
Once the straw is down, they bump up the price.
If homeowners do not pay more, police say the scammers become confrontational and argue loudly, pressuring people to write a bigger check.
AARP Alabama says they have heard of similar scams before. They say the public should check with the Better Business Bureau, get references, and search for company complaints online before handing over money.
Experts say credible businesses will have a permit.
“They should have a business license that they can show you,” said Jamie Harding with AARP Alabama. “They should have documentation. They should be bonded, especially if they’re coming into your home. There should be no shortage of official documentation that they can show you, but I would obviously…you would want to get a refence by somebody who’s had any work done by any company before they come to your home.”
In fact, Hoover Police say businesses going door-to-door must have a Solicitor/Peddler Permit, which requires a background check.
Of course, if something seems off the public is asked to call police.
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