As part of national Rogue Traders Week, Isle of Wight Council Trading Standards is reinforcing the message ‘If you are not sure, do not open the door!’.
Trading Standards officers have recently been called to investigate a number of incidents involving cold callers on the Island, mainly targeting elderly residents. These have included companies or individuals turning up at people’s homes offering to carry out works including loft insulation, tree cutting and drainage clearing. This is despite the work often not being required.
Councillor Phil Jordan, Executive member with responsibility for public protection, said:
“We’ve seen recent cases on the Island of rogue traders targeting vulnerable residents and trying to scam them out of hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
“Our trading standards service is investigating a number of incidents and legal proceedings are also taking place in some cases.
“This year’s Rogue Traders Week has a very apt message. If you are not sure, do not open the door. Contact trading standards on 01983 823370 or if you feel threatened, call the police.”
The Isle of Wight Council runs the Buy With Confidence directory. The scheme provides consumers with a list of local businesses which have given their commitment to trading fairly. Every business listed has undergone a series of detailed checks before being approved as a member of the scheme.
