Rogue Traders are cold calling in the Croydon area purporting to be ‘working in the road’ or ‘working for neighbours’, pointing out problems with guttering and roofing. They quote a small amount for gutter clearing or a damaged tile then start raising to costs to do unnecessary roofing work or gardening work.
We have also had a property targeted by rogue traders with a male pretending to be from Sussex Trading Standards.
Please DO NOT engage or use the services of anyone who cold calls at your door asking if you want work done or telling you that you have a problem.
If someone purports to be Trading Standards or Police please ensure you confirm their identity by checking their ID carefully. Genuine officers would be more than happy for you to check their ID and if necessary allow you to contact us or the Police from your own phone.
Do not allow them into your home until you are happy they are genuine.
Do not use any numbers given to you by cold callers. Call 101 for Police or contact our office on 020 8407 1311 (Weekdays 9am -5pm).
If you require a trader, please look at the following Approved Trader Schemes:
Trust Mark – www.trustmark.org.uk/find-a-tradesman
0333 555 1234
Buy With Confidence – www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk 01392 383 430
Which? Trusted Traders – http://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/ 0117 405 4689
ALWAYS get several quotes in writing from several traders before having any work done. Ensure it includes a breakdown of costs of labour and materials before having any work done.
Ensure you have time to think about the quote before you allow them to start any work. If they attempt to start work without permission, call the police as they could be causing criminal damage to your home.
If you have been scammed or duped into contracting with a business or a trader and parting with money, please report to Citizens Advice Consumer Advice Line on 0808 223 1133 or go to the following website to report online:
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue/