Bogus caller tarmacked Coldstream driveway without consent - and then demanded £4,500
Police are warning people in the Borders to be on their guard against bogus callers.
It follows an incident in Coldstream on Tuesday when a resident returned home to find part of his driveway had been re-tarmacked without his consent.
The day before - Monday, May 1st - a male had attended at his property offering to carry out the work using "leftover materials".
He was asked to return the following afternoon to discuss. But the driveway was resurfaced in his absence.
PC Bruce Anderson, from Police Scotland, said: "The same male thereafter re-attended in a white Land Rover Discovery and advised the work had been part-completed, but there was an issue with his machine. Advised that work would cost £4,500 but he would be happy with a bank transfer.
"The owner then became involved in a dispute as he had never agreed to any work being carried out."
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Police Scotland is recommending anyone in need of work to obtain quotes in advance from well-researched businesses, and not feel pressured into taking up offers from door step callers.
A spokesperson for the force said: "From bogus callers to rogue traders, doorstep criminals are cunning, creative, and often very convincing. Anyone can be fooled as these people are professional con artists.
"These criminals will call at your home unexpectedly offering services such as tarmacking, gardening and home maintenance, they may appear very personable and offer work at discount prices.
"Often however if any work is carried out it is sub-standard and further 'problems' may be discovered resulting in an ever increasing bill."
How can you protect yourself from Bogus Callers?
Police Scotland is issuing the following advice...
- Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly.
- Keep your front and back doors locked.
- Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door.
- Fit a door chain or bar – use it and keep it on when talking to callers at the door.
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
- Don’t feel embarrassed - genuine callers expect you to be careful.
- Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.
- Always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.
- Some companies offer a password system. Ask your utility providers if this can be used and if you have a password with a company make sure the caller uses it.
- Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you.
- Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.
- Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.
- Remember, it’s your home. There’s no reason why anyone should ever enter your home against your wishes.
If there is a suspicious caller at your house keep them outside and call 101, if they refuse to leave your door or you feel threatened call 999.
For further advice on how to protect yourself, friends and neighbours visit the Police Scotland website**.**