Wednesday 20 July 2011

Watch out for scams!


Trading Standards are once again warning local people to be on their guard against scams. 
  • There are reports of rogue traders targeting residents in the Yate, Westerleigh and Filton areas offering block paving, landscaping and patio laying services. 
  • A new tactic is cold calling residents and offering to clean and seal your path or driveway for a cash payment.
There are some concerns that these traders are not providing consumers with written notice of their right to cancel, which is a criminal offence, and that they are using aggressive tactics to convince residents to agree to the work.

There are a number of steps you can take to try and avoid becoming the victim of a rogue trader.

  • Be wary of traders who cold call and the deals they offer you – it is unusual for genuine tradesmen to need to cold call to drum up work!
  • Do not allow any unknown and unexpected visitor into your home.
  • If they claim work needs doing, get a second or even third opinion from other professional tradesman.
  • If you agree to work you are afforded cancellation rights by law, and these should be given to you in writing.
  • Check any paperwork you are given to make sure it has not been backdated and includes everything you have agreed to.
  • If you are unhappy or feel intimidated by the visitor – shut the door and call the police.

If you do have work you wish to be carried out, why not use a trader who is a member of the Trading Standards operated Buy With Confidence scheme?
For a list of approved traders, visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or contact South Gloucestershire Trading Standards on 01454 864419 or email trading.standards@southglos.gov.uk.

If you believe you have fallen victim to a rogue trader, or would like some further pre-shopping advice, please contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

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