A residential construction company in Alberta is cautioning residents about a scam targeting homeowners. The Building Industry and Land Development Association Alberta (BILD Alberta) has issued a warning after fake letters were circulated in the Edmonton and Calgary areas, claiming to be from the association and seeking access to people’s homes for an inspection. The letter states that a hazardous type of insulation known as urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) may have been used in the properties, which poses health risks as it releases formaldehyde gas. Homeowners are urged to call a number provided in the letter for a mandatory inspection to avoid legal action and insurance issues.
UFFI, a low-density foam used for insulation in the 1970s, has been banned in Canada since 1980 due to the health hazards associated with formaldehyde gas. The fake letters include logos of BILD Alberta and the Government of Alberta, prompting both organizations to issue statements denouncing the letters. BILD Alberta CEO, Scott Fash, clarified that they do not send letters to homeowners or conduct home inspections, emphasizing that the fraudulent notices are a way of preying on people’s fears. The Alberta government has also posted a consumer alert warning, disassociating themselves from the scam.
Realtors in Alberta have also been warned about the scam letter, advising homeowners to be cautious if they receive any notice that pressurizes them to act quickly or threatens legal action. Zachary Yuzyk, an associate with Clear Trust Mortgages, highlighted the importance of skepticism in dealing with unexpected official communications, emphasizing that homeowners should pause and think before taking any action. With the rise of scams on various platforms, including physical mail, Yuzyk stressed the need for people to question the authority of supposed official documents and always be vigilant.
Residents who receive such fraudulent letters are advised not to take any action based on the instructions provided and to contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for assistance. BILD Alberta recommends that homeowners who have already contacted the sender should report the incident to their local police department. The association is working to raise awareness about the scam and prevent further exploitation of unsuspecting homeowners. With the prevalence of scams targeting individuals through various channels, it is essential for people to stay informed and cautious of any communication that seems suspicious or could potentially be a fraudulent attempt to deceive them.
In response to the scam letters circulating in Edmonton and Calgary, the Building Industry and Land Development Association Alberta (BILD Alberta) has issued warnings to residents about the fraudulent notices claiming to be from the association. The letters suggest a mandatory inspection for homes that may have used hazardous insulation called urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI), which has been banned in Canada since 1980 due to health risks associated with formaldehyde gas release. Homeowners are urged to contact a provided number to schedule an inspection to avoid legal consequences and insurance issues, although both BILD Alberta and the Alberta government have confirmed that the letters are scams.
Realtors in Alberta have also been alerted to the scam letter, advising homeowners to be cautious of any notice pressurizing them to act quickly or threatening legal action. Zachary Yuzyk of Clear Trust Mortgages emphasized the need for skepticism in dealing with unexpected official communications, urging people to pause and think before taking any action. With the rise of scams targeting individuals through various platforms, including physical mail, it is crucial for residents to verify the authenticity of any communication and report suspicious incidents to relevant authorities to prevent further exploitation.
Residents who receive the fraudulent letters are advised not to comply with the instructions and to contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for assistance. BILD Alberta recommends that individuals who have already contacted the sender to report the incident to their local police department. Amid the prevalence of scams targeting individuals through various channels, it is essential for people to stay informed and vigilant to protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes that aim to exploit their fears and vulnerabilities. By raising awareness and encouraging skepticism, organizations like BILD Alberta aim to prevent further scams and protect the community from financial and emotional harm caused by deceptive practices.
