Friday 13 August 2010

Doorstep callers warning

South Glos Trading Standards are warning people to watch out for doorstep callers.

Rogue traders are visiting homes offering to paint roof tiles with a micro porous roof coating which is suspected to be totally unnecessary, and it is believed that standard paint is being used at grossly inflated prices. Cold callers are also offering to repave driveways, paint roof tiles and repair fascias and then using a range of rogue trader tactics.

Bear the following in mind to help protect you from falling victim to these rogue trading practices:

• Be wary of traders who cold call - genuine traders rarely need to drum up business;
• Beware, rogue traders use high pressure, aggressive and intimidating selling tactics to get you to agree to a contract or pay a higher price than that quoted;
• Remember that if you enter into a contract in your home, you should be given written notice of your right to cancel that contract. Failure by the trader to give you those details may constitute a criminal offence!

For consumer advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

If you are interested in setting up a No Cold Calling Zone in your street, contact Trading Standards on 01454 864419 or at trading.standards@southglos.gov.uk.

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