Scams can start with an unsolicited cold call door knock, often from people trying to sell their services or products. One of the most common in Croydon is rogue traders trying to push consumers into having expensive home improvements carried out that are either not necessary or where some work may be required but they then grossly overcharge and carry out sub-standard work.
We would encourage you NEVER to engage with a cold caller and NEVER to sign up for any work or services from your home without taking time to seriously think about what you actually need and to research the trader in question.
ALWAYS get several quotes in writing before having any work done, ensure you have time to think about the quote and ensure the companies or traders are legitimate by finding traders using Approved Trader Schemes such as:
Trust Mark www.trustmark.org.uk/find-a-tradesman
0333 555 1234
Buy With Confidence www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk 01392 383 430
Which? Trusted Traders https://trustedtraders.which.co.uk/ 0117 405 4689
For further information please see the Croydon Trading Standards link below:
https://www.croydon.gov.uk/advice/tstandards/busadvice/taschemes
Read more information on the Citizens Advice website about consumer’s rights if you think you have been mis-sold items on the doorstep or have been pressured into signing a contract:
Please remember to report to Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime if you have actually been the victim of a scam or fraud.
Call Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline 0808 223 1133 or visit https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ to report a scam or if you require further advice in regards to scams or consumer matters.