Residents in Clunes began warning each other online after a male ventured onto one homeowner's property and asked if he needed any trees cut down earlier this week.

The owner, who did not wish to be named, felt something "was not quite right" about being approached in that way, and noted down the tree lopper's details and the company he claimed to work for.

After a quick Google search of the company's name, the homeowner discovered warnings about it being involved in previous scams across Australia.

Posting about the incident online, several other residents reported similar approaches.

The incidents have been reported to police.

A spokesperson for Consumer Affairs said it was aware of fake tradies knocking on the doors of homes and small businesses, or sending out flyers offering to complete work on a property.

"Often the work they promise to do is either carried out to a poor standard, or never eventuates at all, with the fake tradies disappearing as soon as they have been paid."

Consumer Affairs encourages people to "be suspicious of people who knock on your door or approach you while you're in the garden and offer to do any work on your home.

"Also be wary of anyone who offers a cheap deal "today only", asks for cash upfront or pressures you to accept their offer, or who says they can give you a good deal because another job nearby cancelled or they have leftover materials".

When considering having work completed on your property, it is recommended to seek recommendations from family and friends and to obtain more than one quote.

Tradespeople who provide written quotes should be chosen while caution is recommended when speaking with tradies seeking upfront payment for work.

It is also encouraged not to sign any agreement until you are ready.

Anyone who believes they have dealt with a fake tradie should report them to their local police and Consumer Affairs Victoria.