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.