According to the homeowner, the man began work right away with a sledgehammer before even pulling a permit. As the work continued, the homeowner grew increasingly uncomfortable with the situation and went outside to stop it, but not before the chimney was destroyed and the work damaged his recently installed siding and a portion of his roof. 

The homeowner then called AQRS about the siding damage. After hearing the details, an AQRS representative was dispatched immediately, recognized the signs of a known scam tactic, and urged him to contact local authorities. The homeowner reported that the individuals involved were taken into custody at the scene and their vehicle was towed.  

"We'd just finished his siding, and the idea that someone would come in right behind us and take advantage of him like that didn't sit right with us," said Robert Croteau, sales and finance director. "We couldn't leave him dealing with the damage and the questions left behind. We called a partner we trust, and we're going to make this right." 

AQRS reached out to All American Masonry, a trusted local masonry partner, and the two companies are now coordinating a full repair of the chimney, siding, and roof damage. The work is scheduled for July 13 and will be completed at no cost to the homeowner. 

"We're grateful to work with partners who care about this community as much as we do," said Morgan Bennett, marketing director. "All American Masonry didn't hesitate to help." 

AQRS is sharing this story to help homeowners recognize the warning signs of contractor fraud before it happens to them. Common red flags include: 

• A contractor who shows up unsolicited, often right after another company has just finished work on the property 
• Pressure to sign or pay immediately, especially for large sums 
• Work that begins before a signed contract or deposit is in place 
• Inability or refusal to provide a license, registration, or proof of insurance
• Urgent claims that something is about to fail and requires immediate action 

Homeowners are encouraged to verify any contractor's license and registration with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation before agreeing to any work, and to never allow work to begin without a signed contract.