Our Trading Standards officers have teamed up with
police to warn residents about dangerous doorstep
sellers.
These rogue traders often pressurise and mislead customers, do
shoddy work and harass for payment. Or, they distract homeowners
while their house is burgled.
The warning comes after an increase in the number of unwanted
visitors knocking on doors.
Executive member responsible for Trading Standards, Cllr Carl
Francis-Pester, said: “Bogus officials may be smartly dressed and
claim to be from the council, a gas company, health authority or
other organisation but they are really trying to talk their way
into your home to see what they can steal.
"Bogus dealers may offer to buy antiques, furniture or jewellery
at what seems to be a good price. But often they are trying to
trick you into selling something for a lot less than it's
worth.
"Bogus workmen may say they need to come in to make urgent repairs.
Again, they really want to steal from your house.
"You also need to be careful of callers who offer to make
building repairs or tarmac your drive. Often they'll ask for money
in advance and they may even offer to drive you to the bank. They
then disappear, or do a poor job very expensively.
"But, there are steps you can take to guard against being
targeted.
"Put a Scamwise sticker on your door which instructs doorstep
sellers to leave. If they ignore it they commit an offence.
"Don’t open the door to strangers, use a spy hole or window to
check who is calling.
"Use password schemes offered by utility companies.
"If you are expecting a caller by appointment, use your door
chain and check their identification.
"Don’t have work done by someone coming uninvited to your door,
ask friends or relatives to recommend reputable local traders.
"Don’t be ashamed, embarrassed or scared to report suspicious
activity."
Trading Standards officers can send out a rapid response unit if
an uninvited trader is outside or about to return.
Geoff Bunn, co-ordinator of the 'no cold-calling zone' set up by
the Weston Meads Residents Association fully backs these messages.
"By taking a few basic precautions you can prevent falling prey to
these people. If you have any doubts at all about someone's
identity, do not let them in to your home.
"Our no cold-calling zone has really helped in reassuring
residents and making them more aware of scams and the methods these
people use to try and worm their way into your home."
For further information contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05
06, the police on 0845 4567000 or log onto
www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/northsomerset
Scamwise stickers give a clear indication that doorstep sellers
are not welcome. Stickers can be obtained from Trading
Standards, Somerset House, Oxford St, Weston-super-Mare or from any
North Somerset library.