BE AWARE OF ROGUE TRADERS

As the weather improves and more home improvement work takes place, reports of rogue traders and doorstep callers often increase. We are reminding residents to stay vigilant and help protect themselves, their families, and their neighbours from fraud and doorstep crime.

⚠️ What Is a Rogue Trader?

Rogue traders often target homeowners by offering services such as:

🔨 Roofing and gutter repairs
🧱 Driveway and paving work
🌳 Garden and tree maintenance
🏠 Property repairs and improvements

They may claim urgent work is needed, offer uninvited services, pressure you into making quick decisions, or ask for payment upfront. Their aim is often to secure money for poor-quality work—or no work at all.

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself

✅ Be cautious of unexpected callers at your door.
✅ Never agree to work on the spot.
✅ Obtain at least three written quotes from reputable businesses.
✅ Check reviews, references, and recommendations where possible.
✅ Ask for a business address and contact details.
✅ Never pay the full amount upfront.
✅ Use approved trader schemes and trusted local companies.

Remember: A genuine trader will be happy for you to take time to consider their quote.

🚩 Warning Signs

Be particularly suspicious if someone:

❌ Says they were "working nearby" and noticed a problem with your property.
❌ Claims work must be completed immediately.
❌ Pressures you into making a quick decision.
❌ Requests cash-only payment.
❌ Refuses to provide paperwork, a written quote, or proof of identity.
❌ Tries to stop you speaking to family, friends, or neighbours before agreeing.

If it feels wrong, trust your instincts.

👥 Protect Vulnerable Neighbours

Rogue traders often target older and vulnerable members of our community.

Please take a moment to check in on relatives, friends, and neighbours, and remind them:

🏡 Never agree to doorstep work without seeking independent advice.
📞 Always speak to someone they trust before making a decision.
🚪 It's perfectly acceptable to say "No thank you" and close the door.

☎️ Reporting Concerns

If you believe someone may be operating as a rogue trader, or if you feel pressured or intimidated:

📞 Report concerns to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service.
🚔 Contact the police if you believe a crime has been committed.
🚨 In an emergency, or if you feel threatened, always call 999.

Remember: 

It's okay to say NO. It's okay to close the door. Genuine traders will never pressure you into making an immediate decision.

Let's work together to keep our communities safe from fraud, scams, and doorstep crime. 🤝🏡