North East Lincolnshire Council’s Trading Standards officers are warning people not to do business on their doorstep following recent reports of rogue traders cold calling in the area.
Rogue traders are people who appear to be qualified tradespeople who offer to do work at your home. They may pressure you into having work completed immediately by suggesting that urgent works are required to your property. It is advised that you do not buy from cold callers, and don’t agree to any work or hand over cash on your doorstep.
If someone knocks on your door and you’re not sure, don’t open the door!
There are many reputable companies in the area, so do your research, and if you arrange for a contractor to come to quote or complete any work; ask to see their ID or credentials when they arrive at your property.
For advice and support, including information on home energy grants that are currently available to help you prepare your home for winter, contact North East Lincolnshire Council’s home energy team on 01472 326296 (option 5) or email [email protected]
Speaking about the issue of rogue traders, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities Cllr Ron Shepherd, said: “It’s important that home owners are vigilant and do thorough checks when asking trades people to carry out work on their properties.
“North East Lincolnshire Council has a zero tolerance policy for any sort of crime and this is no different. If anyone fears they may have been a victim of a rogue trader, please report it to the police.”
Trading Standards advice if you need work carrying out:
- Get a number of quotes from traders known to you, family or friends
- Do not answer the door to traders you do not know or have not asked to visit
- Display a notice to deter cold callers
- People can report cold callers to Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.
- Fraudsters also often use social media sites to trick people into parting with their money or personal details. Posts can include investment opportunities, to items and services for sale.
Entering into a contract with anyone on social media is not advised due to the impermanent nature of it. Anyone who has access to a phone or laptop can set up a fake name and address. The advice on checking into companies, asking for examples of work, still apply.
For more advice on this or to report a fraud, visit www.actionfraud.police.uk/
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