Fake websites, polished social ads and urgent payment requests can look convincing. A short pause gives you time to verify who is asking for your money.

This matters when arranging insurance, hiring contractors, booking repairs, responding to rental ads or paying for other home services.

Warning Signs Worth a Second Look

Use the S.L.O.W. Check Before Paying

1. Stop the clock. Do not let a countdown, weather event or “last opening” make the decision for you.
2. Look up the provider independently. Type the official address yourself or use a trusted directory—not only the link or number in the pitch.
3. Obtain written details. Confirm the legal name, address, scope, materials, price, taxes, deposit, payment schedule, timing, cancellation terms and warranty.
4. Wait for independent confirmation. Compare quotes, call references, verify applicable credentials and permits, and ask a trusted person to review the offer.

Verify Insurance Before You Pay

A realistic-looking policy document or website does not confirm that coverage exists. Verify the insurance company and representative through official sources, then call the insurer or brokerage using contact information you found independently.

This article provides general consumer information, not insurance or legal advice. Confirm coverage questions with a licensed insurance professional.

Contractors and Repairs: Put It in Writing

Contractor scams often turn a homeowner’s concern into urgency: a roof problem, basement leak, driveway repair or furnace issue suddenly becomes a “today only” decision. Ask for a written quote and compare it with another provider when circumstances allow.

Ontario says home-renovation contracts worth more than $50 must be in writing. Licensing and permit requirements depend on the work and municipality, so confirm the credentials, insurance, permits and inspections that actually apply.

Rentals and Online Offers

Rental scammers may copy photos and descriptions from a genuine listing, change the contact information and ask for a deposit. Confirm the address, the person’s identity and their authority to rent the property. Be wary when no viewing, live walkthrough or normal paperwork is possible.

Search the address and images, compare the rent with similar properties, and do not send sensitive documents or money until the listing and recipient have been verified. A polished ad is marketing—not proof.

If You Already Clicked, Shared or Paid

1. Contact your bank or payment provider immediately. Ask what protective or recovery steps may be available.
2. Preserve the evidence. Save advertisements, URLs, messages, phone numbers, invoices, receipts and screenshots.
3. Report it. Report fraud or attempted fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Contact police when money was lost, identity information was taken, threats were made or safety is at risk.
4. Watch for recovery scams. Verify anyone who later promises to recover your money for an upfront fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Official Resources

• Ontario — Your Rights When Starting Home Renovations or Repairs
• Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario
• Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario
• Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre — Report Fraud and Cybercrime
• Competition Bureau Canada — Common Scams and How to Avoid Them