She lost $51K to a home repair scam—what happened and how to protect yourself
- Replies 0
It started with a knock at the door and a seemingly friendly warning.
For 80-year-old Saffran, the visit felt neighborly at first—someone pointing out an issue with her roof and offering to help.
But what followed was a months-long scam that cost her $51,000 and left her roof in worse condition than before.
These scams are growing more common across the country, especially targeting older homeowners who may be more trusting or unfamiliar with high-pressure tactics.
Saffran’s experience is a hard lesson—but one that can help protect others from the same fate.
A convincing pitch with devastating consequences
Saffran was at home when a man appeared at her door claiming he and his crew were working on a neighbor’s house.
He said he noticed something wrong with her roof and offered to inspect it for free.
When she returned after grabbing her coat, she found shingles and wood on the ground—planted “evidence” of a serious issue.
The man even showed her a photo of a hole in her roof and warned of possible water damage.
Alarmed, she agreed to a $10,000 repair contract, paying $5,500 in cash on the spot.
That was only the beginning. More men began showing up over the next few weeks, tearing at her roof and demanding more money.
By the time a bank employee stepped in to question her large withdrawals, she had already handed over $31,000.
The work done was not only unfinished—it caused further damage, forcing her to pay another $20,000 to a real contractor to repair the mess.
In total, she lost $51,000.
Also read: Have you seen this strange ribbed plastic thing in your toilet? The reason will surprise you
Why older adults are being targeted
Seniors are often seen as ideal targets by organized scam rings running home repair cons.
As New York City Council member Robert Holden explained, these scammers are skilled and manipulative—sometimes even using accents or polished appearances to come across as professional.
Many older adults aren’t likely to climb up on a roof or question a contractor’s claims, making it easier for scammers to push their agenda.
Adding to the problem, when victims do report what happened, they’re often told it’s a “civil matter” rather than a crime, leaving them feeling helpless.
The emotional toll is as significant as the financial one—embarrassment, betrayal, and loss of trust in others.
Also read: Are you making these home repair mistakes that could be draining your wallet?
How these scams usually unfold
While every case is slightly different, most home repair scams follow a familiar pattern:
Also read: Senior scammed out of $435K—protect your savings now!
Other real estate scams to be aware of
Home repair fraud isn’t the only danger.
According to experts like those at The Bellamy Law Firm, here are other common real estate-related scams to watch for:
Also read: 7 hidden home hazards you shouldn’t ignore
How to protect yourself and loved ones
If someone shows up at your door unexpectedly, don’t feel pressured to engage.
These tips can help prevent falling into a costly trap:
Also read: Elderly couple scammed out of $33K in roofing fraud—suspects in custody, but money still gone
If you think you’ve been scammed
Don’t feel ashamed—these criminals are professionals.
Report the incident to local law enforcement, your state’s consumer protection office, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Reporting helps prevent others from becoming victims and increases the chances of catching those responsible.
Let’s look out for one another
Saffran’s story is heartbreaking, but it’s also a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong—even when everything seems normal at first.
A quick check-in or conversation with a loved one about unexpected repairs could make all the difference.
Read next: This woman lost $2,000 to a no-show contractor–See the clever way she tracked him down using an application!
Let us know—have you or someone you know ever had a run-in with a home repair scam? What advice would you give others to stay safe? If you’ve had an experience with a shady contractor—or if you have tips to share—leave a comment below. Your story could protect someone else.
For 80-year-old Saffran, the visit felt neighborly at first—someone pointing out an issue with her roof and offering to help.
But what followed was a months-long scam that cost her $51,000 and left her roof in worse condition than before.
These scams are growing more common across the country, especially targeting older homeowners who may be more trusting or unfamiliar with high-pressure tactics.
Saffran’s experience is a hard lesson—but one that can help protect others from the same fate.
Scammers often pose as friendly contractors to gain trust before demanding thousands in fake repairs. Image Source: Pexels / Anna Tarazevich.
A convincing pitch with devastating consequences
Saffran was at home when a man appeared at her door claiming he and his crew were working on a neighbor’s house.
He said he noticed something wrong with her roof and offered to inspect it for free.
When she returned after grabbing her coat, she found shingles and wood on the ground—planted “evidence” of a serious issue.
The man even showed her a photo of a hole in her roof and warned of possible water damage.
Alarmed, she agreed to a $10,000 repair contract, paying $5,500 in cash on the spot.
That was only the beginning. More men began showing up over the next few weeks, tearing at her roof and demanding more money.
By the time a bank employee stepped in to question her large withdrawals, she had already handed over $31,000.
The work done was not only unfinished—it caused further damage, forcing her to pay another $20,000 to a real contractor to repair the mess.
In total, she lost $51,000.
Saffran, 80, shared her story to help others avoid falling victim to the same home repair scam that cost her $51,000. Image Source: Fox 5 New York.
Also read: Have you seen this strange ribbed plastic thing in your toilet? The reason will surprise you
Why older adults are being targeted
Seniors are often seen as ideal targets by organized scam rings running home repair cons.
As New York City Council member Robert Holden explained, these scammers are skilled and manipulative—sometimes even using accents or polished appearances to come across as professional.
Many older adults aren’t likely to climb up on a roof or question a contractor’s claims, making it easier for scammers to push their agenda.
Adding to the problem, when victims do report what happened, they’re often told it’s a “civil matter” rather than a crime, leaving them feeling helpless.
The emotional toll is as significant as the financial one—embarrassment, betrayal, and loss of trust in others.
Also read: Are you making these home repair mistakes that could be draining your wallet?
How these scams usually unfold
While every case is slightly different, most home repair scams follow a familiar pattern:
- Unsolicited approach: A scammer knocks on your door, claiming to be working nearby.
- Fake inspection and planted “evidence”: They claim to find damage, sometimes showing old or doctored photos.
- High-pressure tactics: You’re told the problem is urgent and must be fixed immediately—preferably for cash.
- Escalation: Once work starts, new problems are “discovered,” and additional payments are requested.
- Disappearance: The scammers leave with your money, and the work is unfinished or even harmful.
Also read: Senior scammed out of $435K—protect your savings now!
Other real estate scams to be aware of
Home repair fraud isn’t the only danger.
According to experts like those at The Bellamy Law Firm, here are other common real estate-related scams to watch for:
- Fake property listings: Scammers pretend to own homes and request deposits before you can view them.
- Impersonator agents: Always check real estate agent licenses with your local board.
- Lowball cash buyers: “We buy houses for cash” deals can result in selling your home far below market value.
- Predatory lending: Offers to refinance or lend with hidden fees or excessive terms.
- Rogue movers: Movers who increase the cost at the last minute or hold your belongings hostage.
Also read: 7 hidden home hazards you shouldn’t ignore
How to protect yourself and loved ones
If someone shows up at your door unexpectedly, don’t feel pressured to engage.
These tips can help prevent falling into a costly trap:
- Be skeptical of door-to-door offers: Most legitimate contractors don’t solicit business this way.
- Get multiple quotes: Always compare at least three bids and take your time deciding.
- Verify credentials: Ask for licenses, insurance, and references—and check them yourself.
- Avoid upfront cash payments: Reputable professionals won’t demand large sums before starting.
- Talk to someone you trust: Don’t make quick decisions alone—discuss with family or friends.
- Slow down: Scammers rely on urgency. Take your time to think and don’t let anyone rush you.
- Watch your bank activity: If your bank flags suspicious withdrawals, listen—they may spot a scam before you do.
Also read: Elderly couple scammed out of $33K in roofing fraud—suspects in custody, but money still gone
If you think you’ve been scammed
Don’t feel ashamed—these criminals are professionals.
Report the incident to local law enforcement, your state’s consumer protection office, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Reporting helps prevent others from becoming victims and increases the chances of catching those responsible.
Let’s look out for one another
Saffran’s story is heartbreaking, but it’s also a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong—even when everything seems normal at first.
A quick check-in or conversation with a loved one about unexpected repairs could make all the difference.
Read next: This woman lost $2,000 to a no-show contractor–See the clever way she tracked him down using an application!
Let us know—have you or someone you know ever had a run-in with a home repair scam? What advice would you give others to stay safe? If you’ve had an experience with a shady contractor—or if you have tips to share—leave a comment below. Your story could protect someone else.
