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Worried about rogue traders?

There have been many stories in the press recently about rogue traders, targeting people and duping them into spending considerable sums of money. Many of these rogue traders pretend to be care professionals and use hard-sell tactics to convince people they need to buy their products which include mobility scooters, stair lifts and walk-in baths.

This part of the website is about rogue traders. There is information and guidance on having work done to your home and what your rights are if you buy a product or pay for a service from any trader.

Although doorstep calling is not illegal, by agreeing to buy a product or service from a trader you do not know puts you and your money at risk. We all want to get a good deal but sometimes deals really are too good to be true.

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to never let people who turn up unexpectedly on your doorstep do any work for you and never buy anything from them.

If someone knocks on your door, and you're not expecting them, remember to ‘stop, chain, check'. Stop and think before you open the door, check who it is by using the door viewer or window, and put the chain on before you open the door.

  • Always keep your door chain on while you answer the door, and keep it on while you check the caller's identity.

  • Even if the caller has made an appointment with you, ask if you can check their identity badge or card. If you are still not sure, don't let them in, no matter how persuasive they seem.

  • A reputable person will not object to you leaving them on the doorstep and closing the door while you confirm their identity - even if it is raining.

  • If you do not know the caller, ask them who they are and what they want.

  • Ask them to post proof of their identity through the letterbox - their name, company and phone number.

  • If you are still not sure, confirm their identity by looking up their company's details in the phone book, and giving them a call.

Your safety in your home must always come first so if you are not sure‚ do not open the door and do not let the caller in. You are not being rude or uncaring by saying no to cold callers.

Remember the saying, "If in doubt, keep them out".

 

Who to contact

If you have a complaint about a product or service, you can call contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

If you think that there are rogue traders are operating in your area, call your local police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111. And, if you have been a victim of a rogue trader, contact your local Trading Standards office - visit the Trading Standards website and use their postcode finder to find your nearest office.