The Guardia Civil has issued an urgent warning for all of Northern Spain. A highly developed scam involving home renovations is making the rounds, specifically targeting elderly citizens in smaller towns. Although the first cases were reported in Navarra, authorities emphasize that this method is portable and could appear anywhere in the country at any time. It is a current threat that demands vigilance.
The “Cheap Home Makeover”: How Scammers Lure You In
The scam begins innocuously, often with an unexpected phone call or a friendly knock at the door. The individuals present themselves as representatives of an established renovation company, making an irresistible offer: a complete renovation at prices far below market value. During this first contact, a professional-looking, glossy price estimate is provided. The catch? A tempting additional discount if the project’s financing is handled through an alleged partner bank.
Those who agree to the offer soon receive a second “technician.” This person takes measurements, confirms the feasibility, and assures that the team of craftsmen is practically ready to start. However, this is usually the last time the victims hear from the scammers. As soon as the loan agreement is signed and the money has been transferred, there is radio silence. Calls go unanswered, and the promised work never begins. The bitter truth only reveals itself when the bank starts debiting the first installments for a project that never existed.
Watch for this pattern:
- Upfront Financing: A loan agreement is presented as a condition for a special discount.
- False Urgency: An extremely quick start date is promised to build pressure.
- Complete Silence: After the signature and money transfer, all contact is severed.
Red Flags: How to Spot a Disreputable Renovation Company Before It’s Too Late
An old saying proves true time and again: if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Guardia Civil investigators recommend simple but effective checks that can expose most scammers immediately:
- Verify the Company: Ask for the full company name, tax identification number (CIF/NIF), a physical business address, and a landline phone number. A quick check of the Spanish Mercantile Registry (Registro Mercantil), a search for their website, and reading independent online reviews can provide clarity. Do not rely on references provided by the company itself.
- Demand Proof of Insurance: Every legitimate construction company in Spain has liability insurance (Seguro de Responsabilidad Civil) and can provide proof without issue.
- Insist on a Written Contract: A detailed contract is essential before any financing is even discussed. It must include the precise scope of work, the materials to be used, a timeline, the total price, warranties, and penalties for delays.
- Never Pay in Advance: Do not sign a credit agreement or provide bank details (IBAN) or credit card information until work has demonstrably begun and initial milestones have been met. Remember: for contracts concluded off-premises or via distance selling, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period to withdraw.
- Document Everything: Keep all quotes, business cards, emails, WhatsApp conversations, and caller IDs. A complete paper trail is invaluable in a dispute.
Suspect You’ve Been Targeted? Act Immediately!
If you fear you have been targeted by scammers, do not panic, but act decisively. If you have already signed something, contact your bank immediately. Report the potential fraud and have all payments frozen or stopped if possible.
The next step is to file a report: go to the nearest Guardia Civil station or call 062 to file a formal complaint (denuncia). Present all the documents you have collected. If the scammers are at your door and pressuring you, do not hesitate to call the emergency number 112.
Additionally, it is advisable to:
- Warn Your Community: Inform neighbors and the local municipal administration. These scamming crews often work their way systematically through entire towns.
- Contact Consumer Protection: Get in touch with your regional consumer office (OMIC) to inquire about your rights regarding withdrawal and potential claims for damages.
- Talk to Someone You Trust: Always get a second opinion from a family member or friend before signing any contracts for work on your home. A second pair of eyes sees more and can often spot pressure tactics more quickly.
Ultimately, remember this: genuine and honest tradespeople will never pressure you to sign a loan today for work that supposedly starts “tomorrow.” Take your time, review all documents carefully, and never pay for an empty promise. When in doubt, always close the door and call 062.
