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Rogue Traders in the area !!!

Good morning,

 

Rouge traders are in the area. Please look out for elderly neighbours who are typically targeted. If you have suspicions of rouge traders in the area please do not hesitate, report them to the Police via 101. Below is some advice to help you and your neighbours.   

 

Rogue Traders

These people may use pressure tactics to persuade homeowners to have unnecessary work done or to purchase goods. The rogue traders will often have no experience or training and will carry out poor quality work or sell sub-standard goods for large amounts of money and usually ask for payment in cash.

Here are some top tips to avoid becoming victim to a rogue trader:

  • Install a door chain or spy hole so you can communicate with callers without allowing access.

  • Never agree to have work done by somebody who is just passing or take their word that it needs to be done at all.

  • Never agree to have work done or part with any money on your doorstep.

  • Always get at least 2 written quotes from traders for any work.

  • Always agree the price, payment arrangements and start/finish dates in writing before any work starts on your home. You could also ask to see a copy of their public liability insurance certificate.

  • Ask friends and relatives for a recommendation or check a trusted website for details of local tradesmen in your area. You can also conduct some research on the internet to check for reviews of businesses and tradesmen.

  • You can report rogue traders to the Police on 101. If you feel threatened or the situation is an emergency, call 999.

  • For complaints about goods and services you can contact Trading Standards. The Citizens Advice provide free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues. Please see the links in Related Information for details.

    These people may use pressure tactics to persuade homeowners to have unnecessary work done or to purchase goods. The rogue traders will often have no experience or training and will carry out poor quality work or sell sub-standard goods for large amounts of money and usually ask for payment in cash.

    Here are some top tips to avoid becoming victim to a rogue trader:

  • Install a door chain or spy hole so you can communicate with callers without allowing access.

  • Never agree to have work done by somebody who is just passing or take their word that it needs to be done at all.

  • Never agree to have work done or part with any money on your doorstep.

  • Always get at least 2 written quotes from traders for any work.

  • Always agree the price, payment arrangements and start/finish dates in writing before any work starts on your home. You could also ask to see a copy of their public liability insurance certificate.

  • Ask friends and relatives for a recommendation or check a trusted website for details of local tradesmen in your area. You can also conduct some research on the internet to check for reviews of businesses and tradesmen.

  • You can report rogue traders to the Police on 101. If you feel threatened or the situation is an emergency, call 999.

  • For complaints about goods and services you can contact Trading Standards. The Citizens Advice provide free, confidential and impartial advice on consumer issues. Please see the links in Related Information for details.


    Reply to this message

    Message Sent By
    Daniel Huntley
    (Hertfordshire Constabulary, Supervisor PCSO, St Albans - London Colney)
    Neighbourhood Alert