GARDAÍ are warning homeowners across Limerick to beware of cold callers knocking on their doors and offering to do jobs around the house.
This comes after a homeowner in County Limerick was coerced into having her driveway paved.
The man did the job but left it in a very unsatisfactory condition, according to Limerick Gardaí, who reported that the predatory paver then demanded an “exorbitant” fee from the woman.
Garda John Finnerty, of Henry Street Garda Station, warned of a number of “travelling criminals” who go door to door across Limerick City and County offering to clean gutters, power wash driveways, or offering items for sale.
“They also pose as officials of some description. They usually wear a yellow fluorescent vest,” said Garda Finnerty.
“These criminals are con men who prey on the elderly and the vulnerable and they do their best to intimidate them or trick them into buying something or getting some unnecessary jobs done,” Garda Finnerty explained.
He advised people not to leave any valuable items outside their house as thieves like these will try to steal them, as well as making any attempt possible to gain entry to the house.
“These criminals are opportunistic and versatile and will give all kinds of reasons to try to get into your house,” Garda Finnerty said.
“If you need to get any odd jobs done then get quotations from local tradesmen that are reputable and you know that you can trust. Do not entertain cold callers.”
“Remember, you are under no obligation whatsoever to open your front door to anyone,” he concluded.
