With the new year in full swing, regrettably, doorstep traders and scammers have not reduced their activities. Bromley Trading Standards is advising residents to be very wary of rogue traders offering driveway, roof, patio, and path cleaning via cold calling at your door.
Don't deal with doorstep traders
Whatever the work being offered, dealing with doorstep traders risks shoddiness, having no redress, and being substantially overcharged. You may also be subjected to repeated visits in the future.
In a recent scam, an elderly resident tried to cancel a driveway cleaning job but were denied their legal right to cancel, with the trader demanding they pay for equipment even though it hadn't been used.
For more information on doorstep scams visit:
Doorstep scams and how to avoid them – Which?
Find a reputable trader on Trading Standards Checked
Report and assistance
Protect yourself and others by reporting incidents
If you, a neighbour, or someone else you know is being affected by rogue traders or a scam, call trading standards’ rapid response on 07903 852 090 or visit www.bromley.gov.uk/scams.
If the cold caller is persistent and refuses to leave, you can call the police on 999.
If you (or someone you know) would like a cold caller sticker for your door or window, let us know at trading.standards@bromley.gov.uk or through Citizens Advice.
Visit the Citizens Advice website for help and advice or call 0808 223 1133.
Bromley trading standards
To keep up with the latest scam alerts and warnings from Bromley trading standards sign up on www.bromley.gov.uk/TradingStandardsAlertSignUpForm.
Bromley trading standards also runs a fair-trader directory to help you find a safe, reliable trader that you can trust, visit Trading Standards Checked (bromley.gov.uk) to learn more.