NeighbourHood Watch Message
Advice regarding Rogue Traders
Please see the below advice as Kent residents are reminded to be vigilant against rogue traders operating in parts of the County after an elderly woman was targeted for large sums of cash.
- If someone knocks at your door, always refuse on the spot repairs or maintenance.
- Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into agreeing to have work carried out. If you ask them to leave and they don’t, contact the police on 999.
- Don’t ever go to a bank or cash point with a trader; legitimate traders would never do this.
- Use reputable traders who are members of the KCC Trading Standards approved trader scheme Trading Standards Checked (kent.gov.uk)
- Ask for quotes in writing and check that the tradesperson is from the company they say they are from.
Kent Police state : ‘Some criminals will look to exploit the more vulnerable members of our communities by charging exorbitant amounts of money for work that is often completely unnecessary or at best substandard. ‘We would urge residents not to deal with cold callers who knock on doors offering work to clean driveways, repair roofs or to maintain garden shrubs, hedges and trees. ‘We are also asking neighbours to keep an eye out for vulnerable people, including the elderly. If you see anything suspicious don’t hesitate to call the police.’
