Following reports in your area, Staffordshire Police are urging residents to stay vigilant against rogue traders targeting local communities. We strongly advise against hiring traders who knock, uninvited, on your door. These individuals often offer services such as driveway repairs, roofing or gardening services. Their work is often unnecessary, overpriced, substandard, or sometimes not done at all. Many lack formal training and some may even be linked to distraction burglaries. Rogue traders will often ask you to pay cash upfront before any work is completed.
Remember
- Don't agree to work offered on the spot.
- Always ask for written quotes and check reviews or references.
- Be wary of any pressure tactics - take your time to decide.
- Verify ID and ensure traders are from a reputable business.
To report local doorstep crime and protect a vulnerable person, call the Staffordshire Trading Standards Confidential hotline at 01785 330356.
For advice and guidance on resolving issues, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline at 0808 223 1133.
If you suspect a rogue trader you can call Staffordshire Police on 101 or report anonymously to crime stoppers at 0800 555 111.
In an emergency always call 999
Information provided by Stafford HIVE