Local Concern - Rogue Traders and Cold Callers - Update and Information.

Local Concern - Rogue Traders and Cold Callers - Update and Information.

Dear Resident,

As we move into the brighter spring months, we often see an increase in rogue traders operating in our communities. This is no surprise as it coincides with us coming out into the garden after winter and realising just how much its gone wild, with us then wanting to get it ‘Summer Ready’.

These individuals typically go door‑to‑door offering services such as gardening, landscaping, pressure washing, roof cleaning, or minor building work. While some may appear genuine, rogue traders often charge excessive amounts for poor‑quality work—or take payment and fail to complete the job entirely.

Key Signs of Rogue Traders

They knock on your door unexpectedly offering services.

They use high‑pressure tactics, insisting work must be done immediately.

They cannot provide proper identification, business details, or written quotes.

They refuse to give paperwork, including receipts or contracts.

They offer “today‑only” deals or ask for cash up front.

Increased Activity During Warmer Weather

With the weather improving, more residents spend time outdoors, and gardens begin to require maintenance. Rogue traders frequently take advantage of this by offering:

Hedge and tree cutting

Jet washing

Driveway resurfacing

Patio or fencing repairs

Turfing and landscaping

Please be cautious of any unsolicited offers for such work.

Link to Follow‑On Burglaries

Rogue traders do not only pose a financial risk. In some cases, they may be involved in—or pass information to—criminals who commit burglaries. They may:

Assess your property for vulnerabilities

Observe the presence of valuables

Check who lives at home and when

Attempt to distract occupants to access inside the property

If you feel uneasy about a caller, trust your instincts.

How to Protect Yourself

Do not agree to work from anyone who insists you must make the decision on the door. Real tradesmen are busy people and would need to organise this work adequately.

Never let them inside your home unless you are certain they are legitimate.

Use a door chain or speak through a window if unsure.

Ask for identification, and don’t be afraid to check it by contacting the company directly.

Get multiple quotes from reputable, known traders. At the very least it may save your pocket!

Consider using approved traders, such as those listed on Kent County Council’s Trading Standards Checked or other verified directories.

Report suspicious behaviour—your information may prevent others becoming victims.

If You Are Concerned

If you believe a rogue trader has visited your property, or if someone vulnerable may be at risk, please report it to:

Kent Police via 101 (999 in an emergency, or if a crime is in progress)

Citizens Advice Consumer Service: 0808 223 1133
This helps us build intelligence and take action against those targeting our community.

Stay alert, stay safe, and please feel free to share this guidance with neighbours—particularly elderly or vulnerable residents who may unfortunately be more likely to be approached. Please see attached a poster which echoes the sentiment of this message, and feel free to display it in Public Common Areas.

Kind regards,
PC 30724 Jacob Boosey
Beat Officer
Sittingbourne, Kent

Attachments

Rogue Trader Poster.pdf

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Message Sent By
Jacob Boosey
(Police, PC, Swale Neighbourhood Beat Officer)