Top tips to avoid being caught out by opportunist rogue traders

Decking to damp proofing, gardening to guttering, Herefordshire Council’s trading standards department is working in partnership with Consumer Direct West Midlands and has some top tips to help the county’s residents avoid getting caught out by the dodgy builder, the problematic plumbers and the range of people that may call at your door to offer to do the work at a bargain price.

Whether it is repairs to your property due to flood damage or general home and garden maintenance, Consumer Direct can offer people clear, practical, consumer advice. Top tips include:

1. Optional: Before organising any repairs people should contact their insurance company. Some insurance companies may arrange approved traders to repair damage on your behalf, but people organising repairs need to check what will be covered.

2. The 3-quote rule: Don’t rush into anything! If seriously considering having any work done on homes or gardens, people should get three quotes in writing before making your decision. This should clearly set out the cost of the work to be done and what is and isn’t included.

3. How to find a Trader:  In Herefordshire the Private Sector Housing section of the council holds a list of tradesmen which is available to the public. Consumer Direct can't recommend a particular tradesperson or company although in some areas there may be a trader scheme, usually run by trading standards, where traders are working to agreed minimum standards. Consumer Direct can tell you how to get more information.

4. Ask around: Try to use a company/tradesperson that has been recommended or used by people in your area. This won't guarantee the work as standards may vary. However, people may be able to get a feel as to whether they are one of the more reputable companies.

5. Check the contact details: Leaflets, flyers and advertisements in local newspapers will advertise a range of home and gardening services. If you have to rely on an advertisement people should ensure they have the trader’s full name, address and telephone number. Be aware that unsolicited doorstep callers often appear to have these details but they are often found to be untraceable as the information is bogus.

6. The staged approach: Don’t pay for all of the work upfront.  Unscrupukous tradesmen may never be seen again once people have parted with their money. People should make sure they have a written agreement to pay in stages as the work progresses.
Top tips to avoid being caught out by opportunist rogue traders ctd

7. Get a receipt: Consumers should ensure they get a receipt in case of dispute related to payment. This will also by useful if people have to pursue a claim against the trader.

8. Your rights: If the work being done is costing more than £100, people should ask if they can pay by credit card. By paying this way people may gain extra protection. In some cases they may be able to claim through the credit card company if things go wrong.
 
Have you called Consumer Direct? Consumer Direct is working in partnership with Herefordshire Trading Standards. If anyone is concerned about the activities of doorstep callers operating in their area, unhappy with the work that has been done or are worried about elderly or vulnerable neighbours being targeted, they can contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.