June is Rogue Trader Awareness Month
Suspect a rogue trader? Then report them. That’s the message Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards Service is promoting during Rogue Trader Awareness Month.
Cowboy builders, rogue roofers and bogus gardeners are some of the rogue traders involved in criminal deception. They target trusting people of all ages, but it is usually elderly and vulnerable victims who feel the greatest impact in terms of lost savings and increased anxiety.
When they arrive on your doorstep, suddenly and uninvited they can be difficult to spot and hard to get rid of.
Their aim is to ridiculously overcharge you for shoddy or unnecessary work, and do as little as they possibly can. They may just demand a deposit for materials and you will never see them again, or they will attempt to bully you and even escort you to your Bank to get you to give them cash.
To find out more about rogue traders and how they operate, visit our dedicated ‘cowboy’ website: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/cowboy
To report a rogue trader, call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06
It can be difficult to tell a cowboy from a genuine trader on the doorstep. If you are at all unsure, or simply don’t want to speak to a trader on your doorstep – keep your door closed.
Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Community Protection said: “Rogue traders are both unscrupulous and dishonest, but they can nevertheless be very convincing. Never accept offers of work from the first person who comes to your door, look instead for local reputable businesses.
"Also beware of anyone claiming to be from the gas, electric or water ‘boards’. Distraction burglars often claim to be ‘officials’ to get access to your home. Before you open your front door, always put the chain on.
"Finally if you suspect rogue traders are operating in your area – or you have had a visit yourself, warn your friends, neighbours and relatives.”