Bromley trading standards is reminding residents to be very wary of gardeners, tree 'surgeons', or other traders offering their services through a leaflet or a cold call at your door.
Whatever the work being offered, dealing with doorstep traders risks shoddiness, having no recourse, and being substantially overcharged.
Do not:
- Don't contact traders via leaflets that are delivered through the door without making thorough checks beforehand.
- Don't deal at the door! – it's ok to say no.
- Don't pay large sums of money in advance – schedule payment as works progress.
- Don't assume rubbish removal is included.
- Don't accept that traders are members of an organisation because they use a logo.
- Don't be rushed into a decision – seek advice first from someone you trust.
Do:
- Get several quotes – prepare a clear detailed list of works beforehand.
- Seek references; read reliable reviews; ask to visit previous jobs before work starts.
- Check directly with any reputable organisation named or whose logo is shown on a leaflet/website to confirm the trader is affiliated with them.
- Get a contract in writing before work starts – Check the terms and conditions.
- You are entitled to a 14 day cooling off period – with full written cancellation information .
- Check and verify a trader's insurance.
Report and assistance
Protect yourself and others by reporting incidents.
If you, a neighbour, or someone else you know is being affected by doorstep traders, call trading standards' rapid response on 07903 852090.
Contact Citizens Advice for help and advice on 0808 223 1133 or on the Citizens Advice website.
Find a reputable trader at Trading Standards Checked.
Visit www.bromley.gov.uk/scams.
Check these tips at Hiring gardeners and contractors/RHS Gardening.
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.