The Rising Trend of Client Theft — and Why We’re Speaking Up

At Dyson Contracting, we take pride in exceeding our clients’ expectations. We’re not just here to complete a job — we’re here to deliver a result you love. If a problem arises, we fix it before leaving the site. Our policy is simple: leave every client happy and satisfied before we pack up.

But today, we want to speak plainly about a disturbing trend we’re seeing — not just in Muskoka, but across the industry: intentional client theft.

Over the past two years, a growing number of clients have hired contractors or tradespeople with the intention of skipping out on the final bill. It’s happened to us, and it’s happened to other contractors in the area. And while there may be plenty of reasons floating around — a tough economy, rising material and labour costs — let’s be clear: theft is theft.

We’re incredibly grateful that the vast majority of our clients are honest, hardworking people. We’ve built relationships with them that we truly value. But a few bad actors are making things worse for everyone else. The days of sealing a deal with a handshake are gone.

In response, our contracts have become longer — packed with clauses that should be common sense. From common clauses like payment terms and that both sides must honour basic agreements to spelling out that clients shouldn’t steal tools. That they shouldn’t interfere with job sites. That they should steal or hide materials. That they shouldn’t contact dealers, retailer, or shipping companies and impersonate us. True story - these more specific clauses exist because of personal experience with these bad actors.

Contracts aren’t just legal documents — they’re agreements meant to protect both sides and adhered to. They set the rules of engagement, and when both parties respect those rules, everyone wins.

Unfortunately, some individuals sign contracts they never intend to follow. Sometimes you get a vibe during a client meeting, often though you don’t realize you’re being had until it’s too late. These are not miscommunications or honest disputes — they are deliberate attempts to exploit the system, assuming the contractor won’t pursue legal action.

Let’s be clear: we will. When clients violate contracts and attempt to avoid payment, we will take legal action and hold them accountable.

When a contractor is ripped off, it hurts the entire business. We still have to pay our workers, cover material costs, taxes, insurance, overhead, etc. Theft raises costs for everyone and undermines the trust that our industry is built on.

And here’s something that might surprise you: this kind of theft isn’t coming from middle-class families trying to make ends meet. It’s coming from the wealthy — people hiring for work on second and third homes, often for waterfront properties with luxury vehicles in the driveway.

To our honest clients: thank you. We appreciate you more than you know. You’re the reason we love what we do — and we always have your back.

To the thieves: we’ll see you in court.