Trading Standards Issue Warning Following Storm Damage

Wrexham Trading Standards are advising residents to be cautious following the recent bout of bad weather and strong winds.

There is concern that rogue traders will use this as an opportunity to take advantage and con residents out of their money.

Bad weather and high winds are often followed by rogue traders offering to repair roofs, fences, guttering and remove trees damaged in the gales. Rogue traders will prey on peoples concerns about the condition of their property following the bad weather and often frighten them to undertake work that is not needed, of poor quality and vastly overpriced.

Wrexham Trading Standards advise that where immediate repairs are necessary: –

• Always contact your insurance company BEFORE agreeing to have any work done
• NEVER go ahead and have work done on the doorstep
• Use well established companies who have fixed premises and telephone numbers (not mobile phones).
• Go by personal recommendation wherever possible
• Always obtain at least three quotes for the work
• Ensure that you obtain clear invoices of the work carried out.
• Pay by cheque or credit card and NEVER give cash upfront

In most cases if you agree to buy anything costing over £35 from a trader at your door, the law gives you a 7 day “cooling off” period to change your mind.  The trader must give you a written cancellation notice if you agree to have any work done.  Failure to give this notice is a criminal offence.

If you see anyone acting suspiciously or if you’ve been the victim of a rogue trader then contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on08454 040506; Welsh language line 08454 04 05 05. If a trader becomes abusive or you feel threatened contact the Police on 999.