Bogus Tree Surgeon Takes
Root In Borough |
27 Oct 2004 |
South Tyneside Council's Trading Standards section
are warning residents to beware of a bogus tree surgeon
after reports have been received about a man cold calling
in the Simonside area.
An man claiming to work for Glendale, the Council's
Tree works contractor, has been cold calling at homes
telling residents they have a tree that needs 'lopping'
before carrying out a below standard job and charging
a high price.
Councillor Michael Clare, Lead Member for Neighbourhood
Services, warns residents what to look out for. He says:
"Every Glendale employee carries a photo identity
card, wears uniforms with the Glendale name on and of
course does not 'cold call'. I would warn people to
be on their guard as the work that has been carried
out by this bogus caller is not to the standard of a
trained professional, yet the amount he is charging
is very high indeed."
Several instances of fly tipping of tree branches have
also been reported and it is very likely that the bogus
tree surgeon is responsible. Glendale is also concerned,
as they do not want to be associated with cowboy workmanship.
Councillor Clare went on to say: "As with any
cold calling situation we would advise people not to
accept the first quote they are given. Always shop around
for estimates to compare prices and try, if possible,
to get references or even a recommendation from someone
who has used the service before."
John Elsender, Arboricultural Officer, also advises
anyone seeking the skills of a tree surgeon to look
out for specific qualifications such as National Proficiency
Test Council Certificates of Competence, a National
Diploma in Arboriculture and ask to see a current Public
Liability Insurance Certificate. For further advice
or contact details for one of the Council's three specialist
arborists, residents can call the Council's Sustainable
Design team on 424 7532/7539 or 424 6519.
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