HVAC / Pest-Control 'Free Inspection' Bait-and-Upsell
A 'free inspection' for HVAC, pests, mold, or plumbing is used to invent urgent, scary problems and pressure you into overpriced or unnecessary work.
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What this scam is
A company offers a free inspection of your HVAC, ducts, pests, mold, or plumbing, then 'discovers' severe, urgent problems requiring immediate, costly repairs. They may show fake 'evidence,' use scare tactics ('dangerous mold,' 'your furnace could catch fire'), and demand a same-day decision and deposit. The problems are exaggerated or fabricated. Getting independent second opinions and never authorizing urgent work on the spot are the defenses.
What it usually looks like
- A free inspection offer for home systems.
- 'Urgent, dangerous' problems found during it.
- Pressure to authorize expensive repairs today.
- Fake photos or scare tactics.
Common warning signs
- Free inspections that always find urgent problems.
- Same-day pressure and deposits.
- Scare language about safety.
- No willingness to let you get a second opinion.
Example wording scammers use
“Your ductwork is full of dangerous mold — we can fix it today for $3,900, but it can't wait.”
“Your furnace is a fire hazard; sign now for emergency replacement.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Authorization for overpriced/unneeded work.
- A same-day deposit.
- To exploit safety fears.
What to do
- Get independent second opinions before major home work.
- Never authorize urgent, expensive repairs on the spot.
- Verify the company's licensing, insurance, and reviews.
- Take time; ignore scare tactics.
What to do if you already responded
- Use any cancellation window; dispute charges if misled.
- Get an independent assessment of the 'problem.'
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov and your state AG.