All areas - Rogue Traders

Rogue Traders

Please note the following extract of details which as we know through CSN are readily applicable to such traders often operating in the Lisburn area.

CONSUMERLINE WARNS AGAINST INCREASE IN ROGUE DOORSTEP TRADERS DURING SUMMER MONTHS

20 July 2011

Figures released by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) show that home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders.

The OFT is today urging consumers, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to be on their guard against rogue traders knocking at their door.

Last year, Consumerline, Northern Ireland’s consumer advice service, received almost 600 complaints from Northern Ireland consumers related to home maintenance work.

The top five complaints were as follows:
· General building work.

· Plumbing .

· Tarmacing and paving.

· Central Heating.

· Roofing.

With complaints about home maintenance peaking in the summer months from July through to the autumn, Consumerline is urging householders to be cautious and take time to think about people who call at the door. Rogue doorstep traders will often offer services at attractive rates and use persuasive sales techniques to encourage people into making hasty decisions.

Stephen Thompson, Consumerline manager said: "It is not illegal for handymen to canvas for work, but it is important that people are cautious and do not make hasty decisions. Rogue doorstep trading is an ongoing problem in Northern Ireland and work or service carried out can sometimes be unnecessary, of a poor standard, much more expensive than originally quoted or not done at all."

"This campaign is helping people to recognise the warning signs, so that they have the confidence to say no if they’re unsure about what is being offered."

Consumerline offers the following advice on how people can avoid being scammed by rogue doorstep traders:

· If a trader knocks at your door do not agree to on the spot house repairs, or sign anything on the spot.

· Be wary of special offers or warnings that your house is unsafe.

· Do not make snap decisions. Take time to talk to someone you trust before you make a decision.

· If in doubt, call Consumerline on 0300 123 6262 or visit http://www.consumerline.org