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25/07/2011
Beware Rogue Doorstep Traders, Says OFT
Householders are being warned to beware of rogue traders knocking their doors with the offer of cheap building and maintenance services.
Figures released by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) show that home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders.
The OFT is therefore urging consumers, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to be on their guard against rogue traders knocking at their door.
Last year, Consumerline, Northern Ireland's consumer advice service, received almost 600 complaints from Northern Ireland consumers related to home maintenance work.
The top five complaints were general building work, plumbing tarmacing and paving, central heating work and roofing.
With complaints about home maintenance peaking in the summer months from July through to the autumn, Consumerline is urging householders to be cautious and take time to think about people who call at the door.
Rogue doorstep traders will often offer services at attractive rates and use persuasive sales techniques to encourage people into making hasty decisions.
Stephen Thompson, Consumerline manager said: "It is not illegal for handymen to canvas for work, but it is important that people are cautious and do not make hasty decisions.
"Rogue doorstep trading is an ongoing problem in Northern Ireland and work or service carried out can sometimes be unnecessary, of a poor standard, much more expensive than originally quoted or not done at all.
"This campaign is helping people to recognise the warning signs, so that they have the confidence to say no if they're unsure about what is being offered."
Consumerline offers sound advice on how people can avoid being scammed by rogue doorstep traders.
A statement said: "If a trader knocks at your door, do not agree to on the spot house repairs, or sign anything on the spot.
"Be wary of special offers or warnings that your house is unsafe and do not make snap decisions.
"Take time to talk to someone you trust before you make a decision and if in doubt, call Consumerline on 0300 123 6262.
(BMcC)
Figures released by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) show that home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders.
The OFT is therefore urging consumers, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to be on their guard against rogue traders knocking at their door.
Last year, Consumerline, Northern Ireland's consumer advice service, received almost 600 complaints from Northern Ireland consumers related to home maintenance work.
The top five complaints were general building work, plumbing tarmacing and paving, central heating work and roofing.
With complaints about home maintenance peaking in the summer months from July through to the autumn, Consumerline is urging householders to be cautious and take time to think about people who call at the door.
Rogue doorstep traders will often offer services at attractive rates and use persuasive sales techniques to encourage people into making hasty decisions.
Stephen Thompson, Consumerline manager said: "It is not illegal for handymen to canvas for work, but it is important that people are cautious and do not make hasty decisions.
"Rogue doorstep trading is an ongoing problem in Northern Ireland and work or service carried out can sometimes be unnecessary, of a poor standard, much more expensive than originally quoted or not done at all.
"This campaign is helping people to recognise the warning signs, so that they have the confidence to say no if they're unsure about what is being offered."
Consumerline offers sound advice on how people can avoid being scammed by rogue doorstep traders.
A statement said: "If a trader knocks at your door, do not agree to on the spot house repairs, or sign anything on the spot.
"Be wary of special offers or warnings that your house is unsafe and do not make snap decisions.
"Take time to talk to someone you trust before you make a decision and if in doubt, call Consumerline on 0300 123 6262.
(BMcC)
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21 July 2011
Beware Rogue Doorstep Traders, Says OFT
Householders are being warned to beware of rogue traders knocking their doors with the offer of cheap building and maintenance services. Figures released on Wednesday by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) show that home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders.
Beware Rogue Doorstep Traders, Says OFT
Householders are being warned to beware of rogue traders knocking their doors with the offer of cheap building and maintenance services. Figures released on Wednesday by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) show that home improvements continue to top the list of complaints about doorstep rogue traders.
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18 May 2006
Warning of rogue traders in Belfast area
The elderly and vulnerable people within the community have been urged to be wary of rogue traders and bogus callers that may be operating, particularly in the north Belfast area. Police are concerned that some older and more vulnerable people are still falling victim to rogue workmen and plausible sales people who then demand large sums of money.
Warning of rogue traders in Belfast area
The elderly and vulnerable people within the community have been urged to be wary of rogue traders and bogus callers that may be operating, particularly in the north Belfast area. Police are concerned that some older and more vulnerable people are still falling victim to rogue workmen and plausible sales people who then demand large sums of money.
21 November 2006
Doorstep crime and rogue traders to be tackled
Northern Ireland consumers are being warned to be vigilant against bogus doorstep callers who prey on the elderly and vulnerable. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment’s Trading Standards Service, (TSS) is highlighting the problem during National Consumer Week, which started yesterday and will last until November 24.
Doorstep crime and rogue traders to be tackled
Northern Ireland consumers are being warned to be vigilant against bogus doorstep callers who prey on the elderly and vulnerable. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment’s Trading Standards Service, (TSS) is highlighting the problem during National Consumer Week, which started yesterday and will last until November 24.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
