Bromley trading standards has received another report about a doorstep trader scamming a resident.
The resident was visited by the trader who claimed that they were working for the council. The trader had noticed an overhanging tree in the resident's garden and intimated that they would trim the trees for free, but they then proceeded to charge hundreds of pounds for subpar work. The trader also left tree cuttings in the resident’s garden.
Despite what they claim, they are still cold-calling doorstep traders.
Don't deal with doorstep traders.
Whatever the work being offered, dealing with doorstep traders risks shoddiness, having no redress, being pressured into unnecessary additional work, and being substantially overcharged. You may also be subjected to repeated visits in the future.
Bromley Council will never cold call offering to carry out work.
Find a reputable trader on Trading Standards Checked:
www.bromley.gov.uk/tradingstandardschecked
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.
To confirm the authenticity of a London Borough of Bromley officer, check their ID and, if necessary, call 0208 464 3333.
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 www.bromley.gov.uk/tradingstandardschecked to learn more.