A new scam which has surfaced in Garsfontein literally involves a big pile of compost, police have warned.
“The scam involves a group of men who deliver compost at a very reasonable price to your doorstep,” said police spokesperson Warrant Officer Michael Nel.
“It is convenient as there is no need for the buyer to take time off to shop around for the best prices.”
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“The men even lay the compost down on your lawn and save you the effort and time of doing so.”
The problem starts when it comes to payment.
Also, the number of bags used are way too many for the size of the lawn and so is the amount of money the men charge for it.
“The size of the compost bag they use to advertise their service and those they actually use to lay compost on the lawn differ in size,” a Lynnwood Ridge resident who fell victim to the scam told Rekord.
“They are smaller; therefore, more bags are used to cover the same area, thus running up the costs,” the resident, who wishes to stay anonymous, said.
“When residents question the number of bags used or the amount due, the men get upset and begin intimidating the customer.”
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Nel said out of fear and to avoid conflict the customer usually ends up paying the amount due, thus allowing them to get away with their scam.
Nel gave the following advice:
– Before entering into any agreement make sure you fully understand exactly what you are agreeing to.
– Ask clarifying questions to avoid misunderstandings and never assume anything.
– Make sure you agree to the amount that will be charged and whether this includes labour and VAT, as well as how long it will take to complete the task.
– If you don’t get clear and definite answers to your questions, be wary and rather seek the service of someone you can trust.
– It’s best to have a written agreement setting out the exact terms and conditions upon which was agreed. In doing so, you could save yourself a lot of trouble and help protect you against potential legal action.
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