Eastern Bay residents are being warned to be cautious, after reports of a man conning people out of large sums of money for yard work.

The man is reportedly seeking out elderly people in the Whakatane area, telling them there are problems with their houses.

Energy Options' Tai Willis has told 1XX News, the man uses a couple of different techniques.

She says he'll claim to clean the outside of someone's home, but only uses the water to wash his own car.

Tai Willis says he's been known to charge $150, but leaves as soon as the money's handed over.