Denbighshire County Council Trading Standards are advising those whose homes have been affected by the severe weather to beware of rogue traders and cowboy builders.
Previous floods in the UK have attracted doorsteps fraudsters offering a range of flood recovery services and other assistance including tree chopping, garden clearance, guttering, tarmacing, driveway cleaning and roof cleaning.
This results in poor quality work, disappearing cash deposits, excessive charging and charging for work not done.
Denbighshire Trading Standards urge people to be on their guard at this difficult time and to follow five simple steps to avoid being caught out:
• Never deal with anyone who turns up at your door without an appointment.
• Ask for identification and get comprehensive contact details. A mobile telephone number is not good enough!
• Always make sure you get a written quote for any work to be carried out including written cancellation rights.
• Only pay after the work has been satisfactorily completed
• Check your chosen trader is approved by your insurance company
Councillor Mark Young, Cabinet Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said “We are concerned that unscrupulous traders may try and take advantage of those who suffered any damage in the recent flooding and strong winds.
“We want to remind people to be careful about who they employ for repairs. This is an upsetting time for those who have suffered damage to their homes, and we don’t want anyone to be taken advantage of whilst in this vulnerable state.”
"Unfortunately there are people who prey on the misfortunes of others. Make your own appointments with reputable trades people - if you didn't call them then don't use them. Genuine trades people will welcome you asking for references and identification, check them both carefully.
"Reputable traders do not trade in this way and if you are offered such goods, please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Welsh language line 0808 223 1144."
"Unfortunately there are people who prey on the misfortunes of others. Make your own appointments with reputable trades people - if you didn't call them then don't use them. Genuine trades people will welcome you asking for references and identification, check them both carefully.
"Reputable traders do not trade in this way and if you are offered such goods, please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Welsh language line 0808 223 1144."
No comments:
Post a Comment