You may have noticed it’s been a little windier than normal recently, with the region being hit by a number of storms. Unfortunately, as a result we have seen an increase in the number of complaints regarding rogue traders in the area.
The stormy weather gives them the opportunity to cold call on Halton residents claiming that work needs to be done on their property.
However, what turns out to be an initial minor job of clearing the gutter, or trimming away a few branches, soon escalates into supposedly loose roof tiles, or major tree surgery.
Invariably the costs soon escalate from what might appear to be a reasonable £30 for an hour’s work into hundreds and in some cases thousands. At this point the trader may become more aggressive and will even insist on taking the homeowner to the bank to withdraw the money.
Particularly at risk are the elderly and other vulnerable householders, therefore, you might want to keep an eye out for neighbours, friends or family, who may be susceptible to being scammed by these traders.
Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Trading Standards, Cllr Dave Cargill, said: “These people have no morals and will quite happily take money from anyone regardless of their vulnerability.
“If you have any reason to suspect a caller, or if there are dubious looking males calling house to house in your road, then don’t hesitate to call Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.
“When you call try and provide a description of who has knocked, what they were selling, any vehicle details and business names they have used would be helpful to us. If they’ve left a leaflet then put it to one side until we arrive.
“Also remember If you receive a visit from a door step caller claiming to be from a reputable company, energy provider or the Council, then ask to see their ID before letting them in. If they can’t show their ID card, or you have any reason to suspect they are not who they say they are then refuse to let them in.
” If you are suspicious or are not expecting a visit, contact the reputable company and if they haven’t sent anyone out, report the incident to Cheshire Police on 101. ”
Halton Borough Council provide “No cold calling” cards and letterbox stickers free of charge from any of Halton’s Direct Links. The card and sticker ask cold callers to leave without knocking. If you have a card or sticker displayed and a cold-caller knocks anyway please let Trading Standards know by contacting Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.
If you or somebody you know has been caught out by a fraud please contact one of our specialist officers, Linda or Sue on 0151 511 8785 or 0151 511 8775, who are already working with people in Halton who have lost thousands of pounds to scams.
If you need advice on anything else please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline or 03454 04 05 06