With the weather getting more frigid, people are looking to make sure their furnaces and air ducts are maintained and cleaned, which also means scammers are on the prowl.

According to the Better Business Bureau's Wes Lafortune there has been a recent spike in consumer complaints regarding furnace and duct cleaning.

"There's an influx of ads that are placed on various spots online and there are people that make unsolicited phone calls to consumers offering furnace and air duct cleaning," he said. "It can happen all year round, but certainly it peaks and in the fall."

LaFortune said that there are several red flags consumers can watch out for to protect themselves from being swindled. High-pressure sales tactics are common with scam businesses as well as what is known in the industry as a "blow-and-go" tactic.  

"It's a bait and switch tactic because they offer a very low price to get the business and then they do the work and say, 'we had to do a lot more than what we originally told you and it's going to be double, triple or even more, as far as the costs'," Lafortune said.

He also noted that air duct and furnace cleaning companies that aren't legitimate will make contact unsolicited and often never show up. Lafortune's advice to consumers is to do their due diligence.

"What consumers need to do is do research, go to the company's website," he said. "Look at how long they have they been in business, look at reviews. You can ask for references from a company. Anytime you hire a contractor, you should always get a quote in writing."

The Better Business Bureau also has a list of accredited companies, which gives the consumer an added layer of assurance.

"Consumers could look for an accredited business by BBB. It will give a rating, it'll say how long it's been an accredited business and it'll also list what the reviews are and if there have been any complaints."

Other tips to remember before committing to anything are:

  • Review warranty coverage
  • Find out about WCB coverage, liability insurance, criminal background checks
  • Compare prices and service packages

Lafortune said that no one thinks they will be the victim of a scam, and according to him, only 5 per cent of people report scams.

"Any of us can be victimized. So that's why we always tell people if you're under pressure to hire somebody right away, say no."