The Council’s Trading Standards team and Humberside Police are teaming up with other partners to help make people more aware of rogue traders in their area.
Recent reports suggest an increase in residents being approached by these people, asking for them to part with large sums of money.
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. Other warning signs include requests for large upfront payments, the absence of written quotes and a lack of a physical business address.
Recently, rogue traders have reportedly adapted to operate online by creating fake profiles to target consumers with their fraudulent services.
The teams will be working alongside the Community Safety partnership (CSP) who focus on improving the lives of residents across the borough by helping tackle crime and Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB).
Conducting a ward walk in Croft Baker, somewhere that has been identified as receiving many possible rogue tradesmen, the group are aiming to inform residents of what to look out for and what they should do if a rogue trader approaches them.
Common services offered by rogue traders and unscrupulous cold callers include general building work, gardening work, roofing, repairs and maintenance, and driveway resurfacing.
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.
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.
Anyone approached on their doorstep who has concerns or feels threatened should call Humberside Police on 101.
Using Which trusted traders can also be a good way of finding a reputable company. Additionally, there are trade associations that offer mediation in the event of disputes with businesses, such as the Federation of Master Builders.
Further advice on spotting and avoiding rogue traders is available from the Citizens advice website or on 08082231133.
Councillor James Sawkins, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “This is a great initiative to make sure everyone knows about rogue traders and what to do.
“It’s important people have the confidence to challenge these potentially fake sales people and ensuring they have the right information is all part of it.
“There is no place for rogue traders in North East Lincolnshire – or anywhere else.”
Share this article