Doorstep Seller Warning
Trading Standards officers are warning
residents to be on their guard. Teams of itinerant traders
are calling on householders offering building work at cheap
rates.
We have received complaints from around
the County Borough in relation to issues such as poor or unfinished
work. We have been told householders have also felt
intimidated or even threatened by the builders once work
begins. Sometimes the price offered changes and demands for
more money are made, other scenarios are the customer pays once
work begins but the builders do not return to complete.
This year The Vale of Glamorgan Council have
noticed a new twist to the tale. A team may complete a job in
an area which is quite good and at a fair price. The word
spreads between neighbours and families and from then on the
problems begin. Also flyers or roadside signs are seen giving
a Freephone number. On these false addresses (often Cardiff
ones) are given.
Our advice is if anyone knocks on your door
offering goods or services do not get involved.
If you are considering having work done
contact Trading Standards for advice, we have building contacts
freely available for both parties to substantiate what, when and
how much to pay.
Trading Standards also recommend people
contact Care and Repair based at the Ty Keir Hardie buildings, they
can offer advice and assistance in taking works forward, and
monitor works on site to ensure they are completed satisfactorily
before any payment is handed over. They also maintain an
approved list of contractors.
Trading Standards warns people to take their
time on obtaining quotations from known builders first. The
Vale of Glamorgan Council receive numerous complaints from the
public which are often heart wrenching. The
Council would prefer to deal with 100 pre-shopping enquiries
rather than try and help a person who has been victim of these
unscrupulous people.