Stay safe and say 'No' to Doorstep Traders

Rogue traders cause misery for thousands of people each year; most of which are the elderly and vulnerable in our communities. These uninvited traders call at properties offering to do home maintenance work such as roofing, tarmacing and paving, garden and tree surgery, insulation, general building work, burglar alarms and other services.

The work or service offered can sometimes be unnecessary, overpriced, of a poor standard or not done at all. Typically they have no formal training to carry out the work offered and some may have links with distraction burglars.

It is important that people have the confidence to say NO to doorstep traders and take the time to think about the service being offered.

The following is advice on how people can avoid being scammed by rogue doorstep traders:

• Be cautious; if a trader knocks at your door, DO NOT agree to on the spot house repairs without taking advice
• Be wary of special offers or warnings that your house is unsafe
• Don't allow anyone to pressure you into agreeing to have work carried out; if you ask them to leave and they don't, contact the police on 999
• Do not make snap decisions; if you feel that any work is required on your property, take time to talk to family or neighbours before you make a decision
• Don't ever go to a bank or cash point with a trader; legitimate traders would never do this!

If you have an experience with a rogue trader, please report it by telephoning 101. For live incidents where the rogue trader is still at the property, or is due to return, contact the police on 999. The police have a protocol for dealing with these incidents and welcome your contact.

If you need a recommendation for a safe, approved local tradesperson, go to www.safelocaltrades.com or call free on 0800 014 1832.