Rogue Traders

Message from Northamptonshire Police:

We have been made aware that rogue traders have been active in th HACKLETON & MILTON MALSOR areas.

The trader called at the home address of an elderly occupant and offered to clean some gutters, they charged the resident £200 for the works completed.

Rogue traders will often use common tactics such as props to convince occupants that there is a problem with their properties which need urgent attention. This can include buckets containing broken roof tiles, debris/rubble, nests or dead birds to suggest that they have come from their roof space

Rogue traders tend to be quite assertive, albeit very pleasant to start with, and will happily walk homeowners around the exterior of their properties, pointing out elements of work which need attention. Once they have convinced the homeowner that work needs to be carried out, they will always escalate the original quote, manufacture extra work or offer to take them to a bank or cash machine to withdraw money.
If you or someone you know finds themselves in such a situation and have any doubts, please call the police.

Please be vigilant in your neighbourhood for potential rogue traders operating and encourage elderly or vulnerable relatives to call you should any tradesman insist work needs to be carried out or are demanding money.

How to spot a doorstep scam:

• • Someone knocks on your door that you weren't expecting warning that there's a problem with your roof or driveway that needs to be fixed without delay
  • You're asked to make a payment upfront for work to be carried out
  • You're convinced to go to your bank branch and withdraw money whilst they set up
  • Additional problems are identified for which additional money is needed immediately

Always remember:

• • Never disclose your PIN or let anyone persuade you to hand over your bank card, financial information or withdraw cash
  • Don't feel pressured. Don't agree to hand over money at the door. Take time to think about it and talk to someone you trust
  • Only let someone in if you're expecting them or they're a trusted friend, family member or professional. Don't feel embarrassed about turning someone away
  • Check their credentials. You should always check someone's credentials – a genuine person won't mind. You can phone the company they represent or check online, but never used contact details they give you
  • Take the time to think about any offer, even if it's genuine. Don't be embarrassed to say 'no' or ask them to leave (always get different quotes)
  • Call 999 if you feel threatened or in danger. Call the police non-emergency number 101 if you're not in immediate danger but want to report an incident