Beware cowboy builders taking advantage in flood-hit areas

Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Service is warning people affected by the recent floods to be aware of rogue traders and cowboy builders.

Previous floods and severe weather in the UK have seen rogue traders offering a range of flood and damage recovery services as well as tarmacking, driveway cleaning, roof cleaning, guttering and garden maintenance.

Devon and Somerset Trading Standards is urging people to be on their guard and to follow some simple steps:

Don’t be rushed into making a decision on the doorstep, even if the trader says the work needs to be done urgently.
If you do need to have work done get 3 quotes. Estimates mean prices can increase, whereas quotes should only vary with your permission.
Use local firms with good reputations. Ask friends and family if they can recommend a trader or use a Buy with Confidence members. Buy with Confidence members are audited by Trading Standards and agree to trade fairly and honestly. To find a business near you check out the Buy with Confidence website or call 01823 357261 for a list of members in your area.
Be clear about what you are agreeing to. Fix a price and get everything in writing before work starts.
Genuine traders will not mind you asking for ID and/or references.
Never deal with anyone who only gives a mobile phone number with no landline number or address.
Doorstep traders are required to give you a 7 day cooling off period in which you can cancel the contract if you change your mind. Works should not start within the cooling off period without your consent. Think carefully about allowing works to start within your cooling off period.
And don’t forget to look out for vulnerable neighbours and relatives who may be persuaded or pressured into agreeing to work they don’t need.
Devon and Somerset have seen flooding and storm damage in recent weeks, with the Somerset Levels being one of the worst affected areas in the country.

Somerset Lead Member responsible for the service, Cllr David Hall, has endorsed the advice and warnings issued by Trading Standards.

He warns both consumers and unscrupulous traders: “Previous experience has shown that dishonest traders may seek to take advantage of those affected by flooding and I would urge anyone needing essential remedial work to follow the trading standards advice.  We are determined to clamp down on any rogue traders and we will take robust action in all cases where dishonest practice is identified."

If you need further pre-shopping advice or wish to report a potential rogue trader please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06.

If you feel under threat by a doorstep trader call the Police.