Warning issued over cold callers and rogue traders in the wake of Storm Arwen

Residents across Wrexham are being reminded not to use cold callers to carry out repair work following Storm Arwen.

Homeowners across the county borough have been left counting the cost of the weekend storms with many reporting damage to garden fencing, roofs or fallen trees.

In Wrexham, there are many reputable tree surgeons, roofers, and builders who have been operating for years and work off recommendations.

However rogue traders will look to take advantage of the recent storm and the damage it may have caused people’s property and what turns out to be an initial minor job can escalate into something much larger.

In the wake of Storm Arwen Wrexham Council are now urging people to use reputable traders and not cold callers to repair any damage.

Residents are also being reminded to be wary of leaflets that might not be as genuine as they appear – along with using Facebook Marketplace to locate traders.

A spokesperson for Wrexham Council said: “If you do enlist the services of a businesses, make sure you know who you are dealing with.

“It sounds obvious but having more than just a business name, i.e. persons name if not a limited company, and mailing address and contact numbers.

“Make sure you know what you will be charged and get things put in writing. Have a think about any quote you get. Don’t just rush into the first one received. Get a few to compare, or talk to family, friends or neighbours to see if it is a reasonable amount you are being quoted.

“If someone cold calls and points out work you may need doing such as loose tiles on the roof, consider the possibility you may actually have no damage or need the work.

“People who cold call are opportunists and want your cash. Don’t keep cash in the home and don’t ever get in a vehicle and be taken to a bank or withdrawal point. Reputable businesses would not do this.

“Report to Trading Standards via The Citizens Advice Consumer Service. Anything suspicious, note vehicle registrations or take a picture. If you CCTV of any kind that captures images, pass on to TS who can use this information to protect others.”