North Tyneside Council is advising residents to be on their guard against rogue traders calling at their door – and targeting neighbours or vulnerable family members.
It follows several complaints from residents who have been ripped off by people calling at their homes offering to jet wash their drives, carry out roofing or guttering work, and other building services.
Two residents paid one doorstep caller £800 and £450 respectively to clean and re-seal their driveways. However, both jobs were carried out to a poor standard and the trader refused to come back to put the work right.
If you need repairs to your home:
- Never agree to work on the doorstep following a cold call
- Beware of callers who say they are working in the area or have spotted problems with your property
- Don’t feel pressurised into getting work done even if you are quoted a low price
- Obtain at least two written quotes giving details of the work to be done, the price, and the trader’s name and address.
- Obtain receipts for any payments made
Councillor Janet Hunter, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said “Our advice is don’t feel pressurised into getting work done even if you are quoted a low price. Once you have paid a doorstep caller you are unlikely to be able to get them to come back if you have any problems with the work carried out.”
People can report concerns to or obtain advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133.
