WHAT IS A ROGUE TRADER ?
Rogue traders come in many guises but in general terms they are doorstop traders who call without the express request of the owner of a property offering to carry out work, which is often unnecessary. The work completed is frequently substandard and the financial cost to victims is often exorbitant. The simple response to such callers is to say “No thank you”. If such traders persist in trying to sell their services they can be reported to Hampshire Trading Standards. If their behaviour is threatening or clearly unlawful then the police should be contacted. See ‘Contacting the police’ (chapter 1).
HAMPSHIRE TRADING STANDARDS QUICK RESPONSE TEAM (QRT)
Hampshire Trading Standards Service has set up a quick response team to deal with
the increase in complaints about doorstep traders who target the elderly and
vulnerable. A number of specially trained officers can intervene at short notice and
assist in dealing with such traders while they are still in the area.
Rogue traders frequently target older people by knocking at the door and offering
immediate work such as drives, roofing and gardening services. In most cases it is
unlawful for cold callers to begin work unless written cancellation rights have been
given in advance. The aim of the QRT is to attend the incident and advise both
parties of their rights, to disrupt work and where appropriate prevent payment.
The victims, often frightened by the experience, are offered advice on how to make
sure they are not targeted again. Residents in the surrounding area are warned that
others might be caught out – both by a messaging service through voluntary groups
such as Neighbourhood Watch and by leaflets entitled “Rogue traders are operating
in this area” being delivered to all properties in the vicinity.
To contact the quick response team telephone 08454 04 05 06.
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE SCHEME
In response to concerns about rogue traders, which are often highlighted in the media, Hampshire Trading Standards has taken a ground-breaking step by putting together the Buy With Confidence Scheme. The scheme provides consumers with a list of reliable local businesses, which have proved their commitment to trading fairly. Every business listed has undergone a series of detailed checks before being approved as a member of the scheme.
Full details, and the list of approved businesses can be viewed at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or telephone 08454 04 05 06.