Warning over rogue traders in Swindon and Wiltshire following reports
Over the past few weeks, police have received reports of a business conducting substandard work on roofs, guttering and outdoor spaces around Wiltshire
Wiltshire Police is urging residents to be mindful about rogue traders after people have been targeted.
Over the past few weeks, the force has received reports of a business conducting substandard work on roofs, guttering and outdoor spaces around Wiltshire, specifically in the Highworth, Lyneham, Wroughton and Royal Wootton Bassett areas.
When customers have attempted to pay for work, the payments have been turned down by the bank due to suspected fraudulent activity, with the traders then requesting cash instead.
Wiltshire Police say they're working with Trading Standards on this issue and enquiries are ongoing.
PC Joseph Langley, based in Swindon, said: “We appreciate the concerning nature of these reports – work on your home often amounts to thousands of pounds and you want to be sure it is being spent on a trusted company or person who can be relied upon to do the job well.
“It is very important that before you make a payment or agree to have work done by any company, you should fully verify who they are to ensure they are a reputable business by using websites such as Gov.uk or checkatrade.com.
“Rogue traders are individuals or companies that engage in deceptive practices, provide substandard services, and often fail to deliver on promises made to customers.
“They often target vulnerable individuals, the elderly, and those who may be less familiar with the home improvement process.
“Rogue services on offer tend to include gardening and landscaping services, roofing work, energy saving products, and home improvements.
“If you wish to raise a concern, complaints or reports can be made to the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline.
“If you think you have been a victim of a crime, please contact us on 101 or via our website.”
A Trading Standards spokesperson said: “Swindon Trading Standards Service advises residents to be very careful about traders who cold call them at their door.
“Reputable traders do not tend to knock on residents’ doors looking for work so it is best not to engage and to not agree to any work or call backs.
“Anyone worried about potential problems with their property should take their time and seek a second opinion.”