Rogue Traders – If in doubt, keep them out!

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Rogue Traders – If in doubt, keep them out!

A report was made to the Bewdley Safer Neighbourhood Team detailing a roofer attending houses in the Bewdley area.

The roofer claimed that there was a lose tile on the roof of a residents address and they could fix the problem for a small fee of £15.

 

The roofer produced a card machine to take payment after claiming he does not take cash, he then imputed an inflated amount of for the work. (£1500)

 

Thankfully the transactions were unsuccessful and the roofer only left with £15 cash first offered.

Be very wary about trades persons going door to door offering, often offering completely unnecessary work on your property.

 

Tips to remember:

  • do not buy goods or services from doorstep traders
  • do not open the door if you do not know the caller
  • do not let a stranger into your home
  • do display a warning card that you do not buy goods or services at the door
  • do use a door chain on both the front and back door
  • do check ID cards
  • do make a note of any vehicle details (the registration number, any business name, etc.)
  • do report suspicious callers to Trading Standards (the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline number is 0808 223 1133) or the Police on 101.

Be suspicious if you are told:

  • the work is urgent, and you need to act quickly

·  there are broken roof tiles, or a leaking gutter, etc. Take your time to get informed and seek the opinion of a reputable trader before making any decisions.