Residents in Kingston, Ontario are being warned to watch out for snow removal scams after a major storm on January 25, 2026, blanketed the area with roughly 30–40 centimetres of snow. Following a significant weather event affecting the region, scammers are using the high demand for clearing services to pressure people into paying for work that never happens.
Emergency Response Watch (ERW) issued a high-priority alert on January 26, 2026, after receiving several reports of fake contractors. According to community reports and the alert, these individuals often go door-to-door or post ads on social media, pressuring residents to send immediate e-transfers or cash deposits. Community monitoring and reports say scammers have demanded about $200–$500 upfront to ‘reserve’ a spot on a route; after payment is made the person disappears and the snow remains uncleared.
The Kingston Police say they have received multiple complaints in the wake of the storm, including reports from residents in Rideau Heights and parts of the West End. The Kingston Police Fraud Unit warns that a contractor who demands full payment before any snow is cleared is a major red flag. Previous reporting (Global News, Jan. 19, 2022) documented similar schemes and noted that victims have included seniors and people with mobility issues.
To stay safe, Kingston Police advise residents to ask to see a local business licence, get a written contract that details the work and payment terms, and confirm references before any money changes hands. Consumer Protection Ontario also outlines consumer rights and how to file a formal complaint if a business does not follow through.
If you believe you have been targeted by a scammer, report it to the Kingston Police using their non-emergency line at 613-549-4660 or via the Kingston Police online reporting portal. You can also contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 for assistance and to help track fraudulent activity in the community.
