By Council issue warning after rogue traders spotted across North East Lincolnshire
North East Lincolnshire Council’s Trading Standards Team are urging local residents to report any doorstep callers who offer to carry out work on homes, gardens or business premises.
Suspected rogue traders have been spotted in the area and are thought to be offering work such as clearing gutters, jet-washing patios and other garden and landscaping works.
A statement from the Council reads: “Rogue traders target the vulnerable and the elderly. They overcharge for doing very little work and in most cases leave the victim having to find a reputable trader to put right what they’ve done.
“After carrying out work such as cutting back trees, they charge to take the waste away and then dump it illegally. You could be liable if unlicensed traders dump anything from your property.
“Rogue traders de-fraud victims through pressure selling. Often offering substantial reductions to start the work there and then, breaching the victim’s legal rights of a cooling off period. They then escalate the price once work has started.”
Councillor Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said:
“It isn’t always easy to spot a rogue trader. They may tell you that a repair is urgent or that they have just completed work for neighbours and will normally ask for payment immediately. Never agree to having work done when you’re cold called.
“Never let yourself be pressurised into doing something you are suspicious of and seek advice.
“If a job needs doing, make sure you do your research and get at least three quotes from different tradespeople and take your time to make an informed decision.
“Always use a reputable company that someone you know and trust has recommended.
“As good neighbours, we should always be on the look-out for each other and if someone starts work on your vulnerable neighbour’s home, don’t hesitate to report them to the council.”
Consumers can check for registered traders using this website.
People are asked to be on their guard and report any sightings of suspected rogue traders across North East Lincolnshire by calling the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.
