TRADESMEN OR TRICKSTERS? POLICE ISSUE WARNING AMID RISE IN ROGUE DOORSTEP CALLERS

With the sun shining, Police say that they are receiving an increasing number of reports from residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight who have been subject to rogue traders.

Rogue traders are people who call at your door pretending to be qualified tradespeople offering to do work on your home or garden. They may pressure you to make a quick decision, pay in advance for materials or do poor work at highly inflated prices.

Thinking about getting some work completed on your property now that the weather is getting warmer?

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Remember:

• Never agree to have work done by somebody who is just passing by or take their word that the work needs to be completed.
• Don’t feel pressured. Don’t agree to hand over money at the door. Take time to think about it and talk to someone you trust.
• Find reputable companies via the Trading Standards website: https://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/
• Obtain 3 written quotes before choosing a trader.
• Don’t pay any money upfront, by cheque or in cash. Only pay for work once it has been completed and you are satisfied with the job.

If a crime is in progress, and/or you are in fear for yourself or someone else, and/or there is evidence in situ that could be damaged/destroyed, call 999 immediately. Otherwise, report online at https://www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/.

If you would like to report a crime anonymously, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit https://crimestoppers-uk.org/.

If you realise you’ve been scammed and wish to report a fraud that has already happened, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/.

If you’ve been affected by a crime, contact Victim Care Hub for free, confidential support by calling 0808 178 1641 or visit https://www.hampshireiowvictimcare.co.uk/.

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