Possible 'Tree Scammers' Reported in James City

By Sam Thrift Friday, September 02, 2011

James City County residents should beware of individuals who are offering to take the extra tree limbs lying around as a result of Hurricane Irene’s redecorating, because these workers may be planning only to take your cash.

A potential tree removal scam has been reported in the First Colony area of James City County. James City County Communications Director Jody Puckett said there people are going door-to-door in the neighborhood saying they are a tree service. “They are a in a car - not a truck- saying ‘give us your money up front and we’ll come back’,” Puckett said.

After speaking with one another, the neighbors discovered they had been scammed and told the police.

“You should never ever give money up front and you should check credentials,” Puckett said. “Check their insurance, ask for references and estimates, see if they are certified to cut trees and check if they are affiliated with someone.”

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has provided a 24-hour consumer protection hotline to assist Virginia consumers with complaints about price gouging, scams related to home repair, tree removal or other consumer-related issues.

To register a complaint, call VDACS’ statewide toll-free consumer hotline at 800.552.9963.