Warning over alleged roofing repair scammer in Sydney

Police were told on March 3 that a 73-year-old woman was home when she was approached by a man claiming to be a roofer.

He told her that the apartment complex was in urgent need of repairs.

The man persuaded the woman to let him in, where he allegedly had access to her personal financial information.

The next day, the man returned and took the woman to her local bank, where she presented him with a check for tens of thousands of dollars after he pressured her to pay for the “repairs” in advance.

The woman later canceled the check and contacted police

Investigators have now released CCTV footage of a man they believe could help with their investigation.

He is described as being white, approximately 180cm tall, in his 40s or 50s, and with a distinctive, possibly Irish, accent.

When last seen he was wearing a black t-shirt, black hat and blue jeans.

Police also believe he is driving a white van and is accompanied by a second man described only as a white person.

Inner West Police Area Command crime manager Detective Constable Benjamin Kennis warned elderly people to be aware they could be targeted by scammers.

“These scammers target the elderly and claim that urgent repairs are needed to their homes, demanding large sums of money for work that is not necessary,” Kennis said.

“We would always encourage anyone approached in this way to take the time and check that these people are appropriately licensed; these details can be checked with authorities such as NSW Fair Trading, Service NSW.”

He urged older people who felt insecure not to let strangers in or accompany them to financial institutions.

“Be on the lookout, check credentials, involve trusted family members, and – if you think you have fallen victim to such a scam – call the police: we will investigate,” Kennis said.

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