We have had some reports of rogue traders in the area.

We would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness about rogue traders and how to protect yourself from falling victim to their tactics.

What is a Rogue Trader?

A rogue trader is someone who offers services, such as home repairs or maintenance, often unsolicited, and typically does not provide the quality of work promised—or charges extortionate fees. They may use high-pressure sales tactics to persuade you to agree to work you didn’t want or need and often operate without proper licenses, insurance, or qualifications.

Rogue Traders Calling Door-to-Door

Rogue traders frequently target individuals by calling door-to-door. They may:

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Claim to notice an urgent repair needed (e.g., roof damage, blocked gutters).

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Offer services at a low price, only to inflate costs after starting the job.

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Use scare tactics to pressure you into agreeing to their services.

How to Protect Yourself:

1.

Be cautious of unsolicited visits: Genuine tradespeople rarely call without an appointment.

2.

Never feel pressured: Take your time to think about any offers and don’t agree to on-the-spot work.

3.

Check their credentials: Ask for identification and verify their business online or through trusted sources.

4.

Get multiple quotes: If you need work done, compare quotes from reputable companies.

5.

Say no politely: If in doubt, don’t engage and close the door firmly.

If you suspect someone is a rogue trader, do not hesitate to contact your local Trading Standards department or the police via 101. In an emergency or if you feel threatened, always dial 999.

Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbours to help keep our community safe.

Check with friends and family for trusted recommendations and consider a Trading Standards' approved trader from the Buy with Confidence scheme www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk