Published on:
11
February 2011
Don't be ripped off by rogue traders - that's the message to householders across Stirling and Clackmannanshire - from Digital UK and Trading Standards, in the lead up to the digital switchover starting 8 June 2011.
The two organisations are warning people to be on their guard against cowboy contractors who may attempt to charge exorbitant fees for installing equipment or carrying out unnecessary work.
Digital UK - the independent, not-for-profit organisation leading switchover - has teamed up with Stirling and Clackmannanshire Trading Standards to encourage residents who may need a new aerial to look for 'Registered Digital Installers' (RDIs) displaying the 'digital tick' logo. This means they are approved and security-checked with the relevant qualifications and insurance.
A full list of RDI installers in Stirling and Clackmannanshire can be found at rdi-lb.tv or by calling the Digital UK advice line on 08456 50 50 50. If householders cannot find a local RDI installer, they are advised to look for an installer registered with the Confederation of Aerial Industries' CAI Plus scheme. More information can be found at digitaluk.co.uk.
From 8 June 2011, the Black Hill transmitter group, serving Glasgow, central Scotland and parts of Edinburgh, will start switching to digital television.
Digital UK and Trading Standards are offering these five facts to help viewers avoid getting ripped off:
1. There's no such thing as a digital aerial. If you get a good analogue picture now, your existing aerial should be fine for digital. It may need replacing if it's in poor condition. If you need a new aerial and you qualify for the Switchover Help Scheme, you can get one at no extra cost.
2. Use the test card at Ceefax p284 for guidance on whether you need a new aerial. If so, look for a Registered Digital Installer, or else a member of trade body the CAI. Failing that, ask family and friends to recommend installers with a good track record, and get written quotations for the work from at least two.
3. No one from Digital UK or the Switchover Help Scheme will come to your home without an appointment offering to sell goods or services. Don't agree to have work done by an aerial installer who calls without an appointment and fails to show identification.
4. Before work starts, agree the price, payment arrangements and start/finish dates. Don't pay upfront.
5. If you suspect you have been ripped off, or that there is a rogue trader in your area, call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
John MacNeil, Digital UK's Assistant National Manager in central Scotland said: "We're determined to do all we can to protect consumers across the region in the lead up to switchover. There are always people who use clever and persuasive tactics to try to make a fast buck on the back of something new, like digital switchover, and we want people to be aware."
Hugh Hamilton, from Stirling and Clackmannanshire Trading Standard, said: "We want to protect vulnerable and elderly consumers and make sure they're given the right advice and support - whether it's from retailers, service providers or installers."