Kenilworth Residents Warned of Rogue Traders
Rogue traders offering tarmac, block paving and property maintenance work have been reported operating in Kenilworth, Warwickshire County Council’s Trading Standards Service is warning.
Trading Standards Officers are dealing with several complaints from householders who have been ripped off.
Rogue traders have been offering:
· Driveway tarmac work
· Block paving
· Property maintenance including window repairs
· Roofing
· General gardening
The rogue traders are either door knocking or using flyers to make their approaches and Trading Standards Officers believe that they are using false names and addresses on their advertising and paperwork.
Although they may appear to offer cancellation rights, they always begin work straight away so that the householder has no opportunity to change their mind and they use threats and intimidation to ensure their ‘work’ is paid for!
Trading Standards Officers are advising residents not to agree to work being carried out by the first person who comes to your door. Choose local traders and if possible go on recommendation.
How to spot a rogue trader
· They may advertise with flyers that carry false names and addresses and untraceable mobile phone numbers
· They quote very low prices but as the work starts the price will rise
· They will want to start immediately, giving the resident no time to think or change their mind
· They might claim to work for the council or be working on a neighbours property
· They usually want cash payments and will often take the victim to the bank to get them. Alternatively, they may accept a cheque if made payable to a named individual, not the company name.
· Their behaviour can be threatening and intimidating
· Their work is often done to a very poor standard
Top tips to avoid rogue traders
· Go on recommendation if at all possible and use traders family or friends have been happy with
· Ensure the business has a genuine address – find out how long they have been there for
· Ask to see examples of their work and verify it with the householder
· Get everything written down - don’t rely on spoken agreements
· Don’t buy from the first trader who comes to your door or be rushed in to making a quick decision - seek quotes from reputable local traders
Finally, if you are at all unsure say no, or better still just keep your door closed – it can be hard to tell a good trader from a cowboy on the doorstep.
For further information, visit our website: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/doorstep