Bogus Traders

Bogus traders are taking advantage of the continuing bad weather to cold call householders with offers to repair roofs, and guttering.  Work is usually poorly done and/or extortionately priced. One older man was recently charged £8000 to fix ridge tiles and some guttering whilst another couple were tricked into paying an extra £4000 for repairs to their roof. One resident was charged £3,600 for repairs to flashing and some sealant round a skylight. The trader then continued to demand more money saying that extra work was needed and the householder had underpaid. The consumer was eventually pressured into paying an additional £2,300. If you do need to find a trader to do work ask friends and relatives to recommend a reputable business or try the Safe Trader Scheme.  Always remember to get two or three quotes. For more information visit about the Safe Trader Scheme visit www.safetrader.org.uk or call 0303 333 1111.