Lincolnshire County Council has put out a warning that a company is misleading people into hiring them for tarmacking work on the pretence that they are affiliated with the county’s highways team.
Following a number of reports from Lincolnshire residents who have been caught out by the scammers, Lincolnshire Trading Standards has started an investigation.
Reportedly, the company is approaching people, announcing that they work for the council, and offering work such as tarmacking or pothole infilling on private land.
The scammers say that they have been working on nearby roads and have left over tarmac that can be used for private jobs. Then, once they have completed the work, they present the individuals with a huge and unexpected bill to pay.
Although they have not revealed the name of the scam company, the council and Lincolnshire Trading Standards are advising residents to be wary of any construction companies claiming to be working on behalf of the county’s highways team.
Lincolnshire Trading Standards senior officer Sally Gray said: “Residents should take care to research any company before agreeing to contract them for any work. In this case, especially if they are responsible for a community facility – like a local sports club – or a town or parish council in the south of the county, as these seem to be the main targets.”
Lincolnshire County Council assistant director for highways Karen Cassar said: “A highways officer, or one of our contractors, would never approach someone out of the blue and offer to do work for them.
“If you are ever unsure whether someone is working on behalf of the highways team, contact the council on 01522 552222 to confirm before agreeing to anything.”
Like what you’ve read? To receive New Civil Engineer’s daily and weekly newsletters click here.
