Doorstep scam advice

Doorstep criminals target residents all over Kent, particularly older or more vulnerable householders.

These callers may tell you that repairs need to be done to your home, making you feel the jobs need doing immediately. They can be very persistent and intimidating to get you to agree to have the work done. Sometimes they will increase the price as the job progresses, often not finishing the work, which is frequently of a very poor standard.  Some of the traders who work in this way are linked to distraction burglary.

 

What can you do?

Be very wary of anyone calling at your door offering to do work on your home or garden and do not let them into your home.

Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.  If you think someone you know if being targeted by such traders report it to Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.  You can also report it via our online report form.

If you feel threatened at any time or believe you are in immediate danger call the police on 999.

If you are approached always ask yourself if you would have had the work done if the trader had not called at your door. There are few jobs which need to be done immediately. If you do want the work done, get quotes from reliable tradesmen and take your time to choose. A reputable trader will be happy to let you do this.

You can restrict unsolicited marketing phone calls calls by registering with the telephone preference service on 020 72913320 or registering online at www.mpsonline.org.uk

Remember, if an offer seems to good to be true -
it probably is!

 

What if you do want work done?

To find a reputable tradesman ask friends and neighbours for recommendations. Our Buy with Confidence scheme provides a list of traders who have been checked and approved by Trading Standards.

Remember — if the price of the work is £35 or more, you are entitled to a cooling off period of 7 days. The trader must give you a written notice giving you details of this right to cancel. If you are not given a written cancellation notice report the trader to Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

If you agree to have work done and the trader asks you to make out a cheque in a name not associated with the business OR if they offer to take you to the bank to withdraw cash to pay for the work report it to Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

You can also view or download our advice pack which contains leaflets explaining your rights when you buy goods or services and what to do if you have problems.