Trading Standards Warning After The Bad Weather

Wrexham Trading Standards are reminding residents that during periods of bad weather, traders may attempt to use this to their advantage for business.

They told us “Due to the severe windy and blustery weather conditions, residents may notice an increase in trader’s cold calling and/or leafleting for work. Trading Standards would therefore like to remind residents to be especially careful if they need remedial work doing on their homes”

“Gutters, drainpipes and roof tiles may have been damaged by the heavy winds and it is possible that rogue traders may be out and about cold calling and trying to take advantage of the situation.”

They have issued a quick set of guidelines:

• if in doubt keep them out, if you don’t want to do business with the trader don’t let them in.
• Additionally if you find that repairs are needed to your property contact Citizens Advice Service on 08454 04 05 06 for further advice.
• If you do let the trader in and you sign paperwork, if the contract is for £35.00 or over you are automatically provided with a 7 day cooling off period under the Cancellation of Contracts Made in a Consumer’s home or place of work Etc Regulations 2008.
• Additionally if the trader does not provide you with paperwork, then do not do business with them.

These regulations also provide a requirement for the trader to leave a consumer with a cancellation notice, which should explain how to cancel the contract, if the trader does not leave a cancellation notice then the contract is deemed to be unenforceable.

If you are cold called on the telephone or at your door by a trader and you would like to notify us please do so through Consumer Advice 08454 040506.