Beware rogue traders - reports are on the increase

Beware rogue traders - reports are on the increase

❗ Rogue trader alert ❗

In the past month we have seen an increase in reports of rogue traders. Typically this involves fraudsters taking money for jobs like gardening, roofing, insulation, fencing or patio work that is very overpriced and/or poor quality - or is not carried out at all. In many cases, the work isn’t even necessary. Intimidation and pressure is often used to make victims agree to the work.

Rogue traders may:

Claim they were working in the neighbourhood and have spare materials.

Inspect areas you can’t access, for example the loft or roof, and show you photos or videos claiming they are evidence of urgent repairs.

Throw water down when you are not looking to indicate you have ‘damp’.

Insist you pay in cash immediately or put down a deposit, even offering to take you to the bank to get the money.

Legitimate traders will be happy to wait whilst you check them out using a number you can verify.

If you are thinking of having work done on your home, consider these tips:

Speak with multiple tradespeople and compare quotes.

Ask for a contract for the work.

Check with friends and family for recommendations, or reviews on legitimate trader websites.

If you’re being pushed to take on a trader quickly, this could be a sign that something isn’t right.

Visit Citizens Advice for further consumer information: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/getting-home-improvements-done/before-you-get-building-work-done/

#LincolnshireAgainstFraud – joining forces to help protect people in our county.

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