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I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Fraud, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey. We have seen an increase in reports of rogue traders operating across Dorset. These criminals often target homeowners, particularly older and vulnerable residents, and use high-pressure sales tactics to persuade people to agree to unnecessary or poor-quality work.
Common Rogue Trader Tactics
Be wary of anyone who cold calls at your door offering home repairs or maintenance. Legitimate traders do not usually obtain work by knocking on doors uninvited.
Common tactics include:
Claiming they have noticed damage to your roof, guttering, driveway, or property.
Showing you photographs of supposed damage which may be fake or unrelated to your home.
Saying they have been working locally and have "materials left over", allowing them to do the work at a discounted price.
Pressuring you to make an immediate decision.
Asking for cash payments or large upfront deposits.
Offering to drive you to your bank to withdraw money.
How to Protect Yourself
✅ Never agree to work from a cold caller.
✅ Always obtain at least three quotes before committing to any work.
✅ Use tradespeople recommended by friends, family, or recognised approved trader schemes.
✅ Ask for a written quotation before any work begins.
✅ Never pay cash if it can be avoided.
✅ Never agree to make an immediate payment or sign a contract on the spot.
✅ Speak to a trusted friend or family member before making any decisions.
✅ Do not rely solely on an ID card shown to you. Verify the trader independently by contacting their company using a telephone number from their official website or other trusted source.
✅ Remember that a genuine business will not pressure you into making an immediate financial decision.
Have You Been a Victim?
If you have made a payment to a rogue trader:
Contact your bank immediately on 159. They may be able to help prevent further losses.
Check your bank statements regularly for any unusual transactions.
Report the incident to the relevant authorities.
Beware of Recovery Scams
Fraudsters sometimes contact previous victims claiming they can help recover lost money for a fee. This is a second scam.
❌ Never pay anyone who claims they can recover your money.
❌ Hang up on unexpected callers making such claims.
Please Share This Message
Look out for friends, family members, and neighbours, especially those who may be vulnerable. Sharing this advice could help prevent someone from becoming a victim.
Please post on your social media.
Remember: Stop, Think, Fraud. If in doubt, don't let them in and don't agree to any work on the doorstep.
![]() Get Involved Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
For further information regarding this issue, please refer to our website. | 
