Rogue traders and scams

May is National Scams Awareness Month 2012

Doorstep selling

Doorstep salesmen can provide a valuable service, bringing shopping facilities and services to your home.

Unfortunately, not all callers are genuine. Some use pressure selling tactics to rush you into a decision. They may have no experience or training and could convince you to buy something that is over-priced and that you didn't really need or want.

Never agree to have a job done on the spot by people who call without an appointment.

Remember, doorstep sellers are trained to get people to buy. They can be extremely persuasive. Once you have let a doorstep seller into your home, they will be expecting a sale - and they won't give up easily.

Directgov - Buying on your doorstep – your consumer rights

Alarm sale scams (pdf, 46Kb)

Warwickshire residents can request a free 'We Don't Buy at the Doorstep' sticker by phoning 01926 414040.

To make a consumer complaint or enquiry, contact Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06 or 0208 1850 710 or visit CAB Adviceguide

Rogue traders

Rogue traders often work door to door or use flyers to approach householders.

They generally offer maintenance work such as gardening, driveway repair and roofing.

They quote low prices which are then inflated and provide work which is of a very poor standard.

They sometimes use intimidation to 'encourage' homeowners to accept offers of work and to pay up afterwards.

Rogue traders use false names and addresses and are hard to trace.

Directgov - Beware rogue doorstep traders, warns OFT

Bogus damp-proofers (pdf, 46Kb)

Rogue gardeners (pdf, 46Kb)

Tarmac gangs and rogue block pavers (pdf, 86Kb)

Directgov - Choosing a good builder

Our best advice would be that if you don't want to speak to a caller, don't open your door to them.

It can be hard to distinguish the good traders from the cowboys; it might be easier to keep the door closed. Do not allow uninvited callers into your home.