Window cleaning scammers out today?

[Pengui]

I'm relatively new to ED and based on previous threads I think I was approached by window cleaning scammers...

A man just knocked on my door (which my young son opened!! Another issue entirely), said he planned to clean windows on my street and offered to clean ours. They are quite dirty so I said yes, then he asked for advanced pay for several months of cleaning. I told him I didn't need months of cleaning, so he said he'd come back tomorrow but asked me to pay in advance. I told him I'd pay after the job was done, so we scheduled his return for 3:00 tomorrow. He left talking into his mobile about "booking another appointment", though I didn't see him dial anyone.

Anyone else speak to this person? Am I correct to think this is a scam? I suppose I'll find out if he shows up tomorrow, but based on previous threads I hope he doesn't...

[Huggers]

yes believe these are scammers.

[Vik]

Sounds like a scam to me, well done for not parting with any money!

[Penguin68]

There are a number of good and reliable window cleaners who do service ED - they will ask for money after the job has been done.

Search on 'Window Cleaners' in the businesses and trades section. Many recommendations there.

[Pengui]

Thank you -- hopefully he won't turn up again. I will search this site for reputable window cleaners!

[lane lover]

Agree. I use a local window cleaner, and they only ask for cash after the job is done - never in advance.

Take their photo next time and post it on here!

[maxxi]

This is an old and well worn scam (had it tried on me back in late 90s)- usually on the lines of "Look, tell you what. You just give me say ?20 up front and you'll be top of the list when we start, we've got so many people wanting their windows done it'd pay you to make sure you get in early...... too right, strike a light, cor blimey guvnor, etc etc"

[ianc]

Yep, he came to Landcroft Rd yesterday too. I sent him away.

[healer]

He came to Upland Road yesterday too, he wanted pre paid money to clean my windows on the following day. I of course refused and surprise surprise no sign of him today.

[DJKillaQueen]

When I was a kid the prospective window cleaner would turn up with ladders and bucket and would offer to do them there and then. Maybe times have changed so much that it's no 'de riguer' to advance book for a window cleaner!

[Pengui]

Well, I remain here with dirty windows and a ?10 note burning a hole in my hand. He didn't show for his scheduled appointment (thankfully).

[Spooner]

I very nearly fell for this scam a year ago when we'd just moved in. As he made a reference to the previous owner of the house being a doctor - which was true - I thought he must be bona fide. I'm still waiting for him to clean my windows a year on but fortunately didn't pre-pay. The nerve of the guy - I'd love to see a picture of him on here.

[the-e-dealer]

The little bloke with the moustache is fairly reliable ?6 for a front clean. PM me if you want me to send him round.

[the-e-dealer]

To those who suggest Calling the Police. can you imagine the conversation ?

"Hello Police, You know those window cleaners who take the money and dont come back" ?

"yes Sir?"

"Well they havent come back to my house"

"OK where shall we send the van sir?!"

[Pengui]

Clearly this man has knocked on countless doors in ED over the last few days. Imagine the money he would have if he actually brought a bucket and cleaning supplies with him!! Is it really more profitable to just scam?