MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury District
Check tradesmen's qualifications and get a second opinion
That's the message from Canterbury Police after reports of opportunists offering to remove people's damaged chimneys and do other repair work around Christchurch.
Inspector Dave Gaskin said overnight, Police spoke to a number of people who had experienced similar situations to an elderly woman who phoned Police.
"She was approached by a man yesterday who came to her home offering to take down her chimney but their demeanour left her ill at ease.
"Their manner and lack of identification leads us to believe they were opportunists seeking to take advantage of a vulnerable woman."
Mr Gaskin said in the first instance the Fire Service are prepared to render safe damaged chimneys on homes but owners will need to arrange tradesmen to repair them.
"We recommend people ask for identification and trade qualifications and get more than one quote. And if you feel something is suspicious, phone Police."
Mr Gaskin said Police are applying a zero tolerance approach to anyone found to be trying to take advantage of the current situation in Canterbury.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Andrew McAlley on 027 296 2396.