Windy warning on rogue builders

Date published: 13/01/2005

It's an ill wind that blows no good, so the saying goes but residents in Rochdale are being warned to ensure they don't give cowboy builders a field day after recent storms.

Rochdale Council's Trading Standards Service today issued a timely reminder that gangs of rogue traders do target residents to do jobs or repairs to damaged property following extreme weather.

And after the week's strong winds and bad weather officers are warning people to be aware of people knocking on their door offering to do work.

Unscrupulous gangs often target householders, including vulnerable, elderly people, quoting a low price for a job. The price often rises or additional work is often needed, which ends up with people handing over large amounts of money.

Simon Teinert, the Consumer Advice & Support Manager, said, "The practice of offering to do work or repairs door to door is not uncommon. Unfortunately people end up paying a lot more than was anticipated. The work is often done immediately before people have the chance to change their mind and it is often of a very poor standard.

"Anyone knocking on a door offering to do work must comply with the law and give householders seven days written cancellation rights."

Anyone needing work doing to their home should remember:

• Not to be forced in to making a quick decision on the doorstep
• To get three quotes from reputable companies for any work done –
  remembering that the best recommendation is a personal one from someone  
  who has had work done             
• To fix a price and be specific about what work is to be done
• To get everything in writing, including the company details, price
  and work to be done
• To pay by credit card if possible for all jobs over £100, which
  ensures extra protection

Anyone who is unsure about a caller should contact the police, or Trading Standards on (01706). 864186 . Further information Simon Teinert, Consumer Advice & Support Manager, Tel (01706) 864159

Ken Peden, Communications Officer, Tel (01706) 865645 Fax (01706) 865656

e-mail ken.peden@rochdale.gov.uk website www.rochdale.gov.uk