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Potential furnace inspection scam

New Westminster – The New Westminster Police Department has received several complaints about alleged salespersons from a company named “Eco-Energy” regarding misleading sales practices. The complainant’s allege that door-to-door sales persons are misleading consumers, providing false information and using high pressure sales tactics to gain access to people’s homes to conduct questionable furnace inspections. It appears these sales persons are targeting seniors.

Residents who feel they have been treated unfairly by a business should call Consumer Protection BC at 1-888-564-9963 to discuss options.

The NWPD offers these tips and related information:

  • Residents should always ask to see identification from door to door sales people but be careful not to assume that if a person has identification that their credentials are legitimate.
  • Never feel pressured to do a quick sale, or to let someone into your home.
    If you do not want to deal with the person, tell the person to leave your property.
  • Ensure all contractors are properly licensed and insured.
  • Research the company and consider getting references prior to making any deals.
  • The Gas Safety Act prohibits anyone from servicing, removing, replacing, re-installing or altering any components of a gas-fired appliance unless the technician holds a current certificate of competency issued by the provincial Gas Safety Branch.
  • Anyone having a furnace serviced or cleaned should ask to see the company representative’s Gas Safety Branch license.
    Gas and electrical projects done without properly trained and certified experts can create safety hazards that may put your family’s safety and your investment at risk.

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