Trading Standards is asking everyone to be aware that rogue traders and cold callers may try to take advantage of the damage caused by Storm Darragh to con people out of their money.
In Wrexham, there are many reputable tree surgeons, roofers, and builders who have been operating for years and work off recommendations. You may have to wait for someone good.
Here’s some general good advice for you to follow:
- Do not deal with someone who turns up at your doorstep.
- Be very wary of leaflets and of using Facebook Market place or websites such as Bark.
- Make sure you have more than a business name. Get contact details and get a quote and check with neighbours, friends or family if it’s reasonable.
- If someone cold calls and points out work you may need doing such as loose tiles on the roof, consider the possibility you may actually have no damage or need the work carrying out.
- People who cold call are opportunists and want your cash. Don’t keep cash in the home and don’t ever get in a vehicle and be taken to a bank or withdrawal point. Reputable businesses would not do this.
Who to contact
If you see anyone acting suspiciously or if you’ve been the victim of a rogue trader yourself, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08082231133 (or 08082231144 for the Welsh Language service).
If you are concerned about traders working or leafleting in your neighbourhood, contact your local policing team through 101. If a trader becomes abusive or you feel threatened, contact police on 999.
Trading Standards’ advice is that you never agree to work being offered by a cold-calling trader. If you feel work is needed, always try to obtain a number of quotes from reputable traders before going ahead.
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