Published on:
15
July 2016
Clackmannanshire Council's Trading Standards Service is warning residents about rogue doorstep traders offering home maintenance services this summer.
The Service continues to receive complaints about doorstep crime which increase as the weather improves.
Trading Standards is urging the public to be on their guard in a bid to reduce the number of victims of Doorstep Crime. Some rogue traders offer services such as window and gutter cleaning, roofing work, driveway repairs and garden clearance with the aim of cheating households. Some may even claim to have previously carried out work on the roof and want to inspect for issues that may fall under the warranty. The householder is then told that there are problems that need to be rectified immediately. This is done with a view to obtaining money from the householder for carrying out no or very little work.
The work done by many of these traders is often shoddy with extortionate prices charged for substandard repairs and unnecessary jobs. Sometimes money is taken without the work agreed being done. The cost of repairing the poor work can often leave consumers in unexpected debt.
Other criminals may claim to be from the Council, health care companies or utility and phone companies.
Doorstep crime can affect anyone - but the elderly and vulnerable are often targeted.
It is important that you not only exercise caution on your own doorstep, but look out for your neighbours, family and friends to help prevent them from falling victim too.
Trading Standards is asking residents to be part of the solution, say NO to doorstep crime and make sure you talk to those around you to raise awareness. Remember you do not have to answer the door to anyone unless you feel comfortable doing so.
If you want to have work done then ask friends and family for recommendations or access the Buy With Confidence Scheme. The scheme provides consumers with a list of local businesses who have given their commitment to trading fairly. Every business listed has undergone a series of detailed checks before being approved as a member of the scheme.
For more information visit the Buy With Confidence pages on ClacksWeb or the national site at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk
For advice contact the Trading Standards Team on 01786 443322 or email tradingstandards@clacks.gov.uk