Uninvited doorstep callers
These 'salespeople / traders' might show up unannounced and try to pressure you into getting work done on your house, like fixing your roof, driveway, gutters, or trees. They'll often claim they're just in the neighbourhood and can offer a super cheap price.
You may also encounter Nottingham Knockers / Duster sellers who claim to be part of a rehabilitation scheme and try to sell household cleaning products. Unfortunately, not only are they after selling you poor quality items at highly inflated prices they are also checking out suitable targets for details to be sold onwards to professional burglars.
Here's the catch:
- You probably don't even need the work done.
- They'll pressure you to agree right away.
- The price might skyrocket once they start working.
- They might do a shoddy job or leave it unfinished after taking your money.
These scams especially target older folks and people who might be easily pressured.
Here's what to do:
- Don't feel obligated to talk to them at all.
- If you do talk, don't agree to anything on the spot. Please note If you agree for the work to be carried out, they are legally required to give you a written notice explaining you have the right to a 14 day cooling off period.
- Get quotes from other companies before making a decision.
- Do not pay cash on your doorstep.
Even if you already paid for bad work, there might be ways to get help. Report the scammer to the authorities so they can't trick others.
Door cameras
Some people in Buckinghamshire and Surrey, such as those who are vulnerable to giving out personal or financial information and susceptible to frequent unsolicited or nuisance callers at their door, may be able to get a door camera for free.
Who to contact
Here's who to contact if you're dealing with a rogue trader:
- If you feel threatened or in immediate danger: Call the Police on 999.
- If the trader is still there or expected to return soon: Call the Police on 101.
- For advice and to report the trader: Call Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133 - they will pass the enquiry to the relevant Trading Standards service (weekdays, 9am to 5pm).
Even if the trader is gone:
- We can still help! we're interested in gathering information to track down these scammers. You can call us on the same number above.
- You can request a free "No Cold Calling" sticker to deter these types of calls.
- If a trader ignores the sticker, we have a template letter you can use to tell them to stop calling.
Important note: We might not be able to help with every case, but we prioritize emergencies and will try our best to assist you if a trader is present or expected to return soon.