Devon targets Doorstep crime

As part of National Rogue Trader Week (7 – 11 April), Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Officers have been focusing on the scourge of doorstep crime through education, engagement and enforcement in partnership with Police forces.

The vulnerable and elderly nature of targeted consumers, the high levels of financial loss, and the health issues that victims suffer also creates increased demands on local care and support services, particularly when victims are targeted repeatedly by organised criminal gangs whose tactics are constantly being changed and adapted.

Rogue Trading incidents typically occur where consumers have been ‘cold called’ by traders using fraudulent, misleading or aggressive practices including:

deliberately overcharging;
incompetent workmanship;
charging for unnecessary work;
damaging property deliberately in order to obtain work;
leaving work unfinished;
intimidating behaviour in order to extort money.

The rogues often target the most vulnerable in society including the elderly, housebound and those suffering from dementia. In the worst cases many thousands of pounds are obtained for work of little or no value.

Devon and Somerset Trading Standards has successfully prosecuted rogue traders operating in this area. Last year a cowboy builder from South Devon was handed a custodial sentence after cheating an elderly Devon resident out of nearly £120,000 by overcharging her for various building works at her property, including some work which was also unnecessary.

Describing him as a “callous, skilful conman” who showed no regret and no degree of empathy with his victim, the judge sentenced him to five years in prison, telling him that he believed “if the opportunity arose again, you would no doubt do the same again.” The judge also ordered a financial investigation under the Proceeds of Crime Act with a view to confiscation of assets.

Cases like these show the importance of using recognised, suitably qualified and accredited tradesmen. Anyone looking for a Devon or Somerset trader, whether a builder, roofer, electrician or plumber should visit the ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme website for Trading Standards approved traders in their area.

No Cold Callers PosterAdvice for consumers

If you are expecting a trader:

Use a door chain;
Check their identification;
Check the caller by phoning the company using a number from the phone book;
Use a password scheme to check callers for utility companies.

Reputable companies won’t mind waiting while you check.

If you decide you want some work done:

Don’t be rushed – Take time to think before agreeing to work.
Ask friends or relatives to recommend local companies.
Consider companies from ‘Assured trader schemes’ such as the trading standards approved ‘Buy with Confidence’.
Look for members of trade associations with consumer protection schemes.
Get three quotes.
Check internet forum sites.
NEVER pay large deposits up front.
Have the goods delivered before you pay for them.
Most contracts signed at home can be cancelled in 7 days.
Never sign away your cooling off period.
From 13 June 2014 the cooling off period is extended to 14 days.
If you change your mind or things go wrong contact the CAB Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06
If you want to report something anonymously you can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
Incidents can be reported to trading standards on 08454 04 05 06 or to the Police on 101 for non urgent cases or 999 if it is urgent.

More information on rogue traders, scams and doorstep crime by visiting Devon and Somerset Trading Standards newly launched Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Service website.

The website combines with Devon and Somerset Trading Standards Facebook page and Twitter account to expand the service’s outreach, as well as to make it easier to get the word out about emergent situations and key issues businesses and the general public are dealing with.