Beware of cold callers offering to carry out repairs to damaged properties

The local Citizens Advice service is warning residents to stay alert following the recent bad weather.

The Citizens Advice service covering Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale and Trafford last week published guidance on how to spot and deal with con merchants and rogue traders who are offering flood recovery services, tree chopping, garden clearance, gutter cleaning, driveway cleaning and roof cleaning or repairs.

Steve Hughes, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice Stockport said:

“We often see an increase in con merchants and rogue traders after bad weather, usually targeting the vulnerable people in our communities.

“Rogue traders and con merchants can pose as anyone; flood recovery services, tree chopping, garden clearance, guttering, driveway cleaning and roof cleaning.

“We are advising people to stay alert. Do not be pressured into making a decision, take your time.”

The local Citizens Advice is advising residents to take some simple steps:

  • Do not feel pressured into making a decision on your doorstep, take your time.

  • Always ask for proof of identity and ask for references. Take it from the person and read it carefully before deciding what to do.

  • Never pay for work in full before it is completed. Always agree on a final price in writing and get an invoice and receipt as proof of payment.

  • Do not accept any offer to drive you to the bank to withdraw money or give them your bank details.

  • If you need to get work done to your home, get several written quotes from trustworthy or recommended firms and then decide who is right for you.

If residents are concerned, or just want some peace of mind; the Citizens Advice Consumer Service can help, call on 03454 04 05 06 or the Police on 101 about any suspicious people, activity or vehicles, however insignificant it may seem.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Contact: press@castockport.org.uk

  • The Citizens Advice service covering Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale and Trafford is a partnership including Citizens Advice Pennine West and Citizens Advice Stockport working together through a formal collaboration agreement to jointly deliver services in the local authority areas.

  • Together in 2018/19, the charity helped 35,000 unique clients with 74,500 issues

  • The top three advice issues are; Benefits & Tax Credits (includes Universal Credit), Debt, and Housing.

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