Rouge TRADERS

Rouge TRADERS

Good Morning,

Please be advised Rouge Traders were disrupted in your area yesterday by the local PCSO. It was reported person(s) have been knocking on doors suggesting to homeowners their roof(s) need fixing.

If you have been approached by any of these individuals or are having any roof work done, please see below in reference to identifying Rouge Traders.

Be cautious of unsolicited traders who pressure you to agree to work immediately, refuse a written quote, demand large upfront payments, or lack a physical business address and verifiable credentials. Reputable traders will not call uninvited, and you should never feel rushed or pressured into having work done. Always get multiple written quotes, don't pay large amounts upfront, and don't sign on the spot.

Warning signs of a rogue trader

Unsolicited approach: They turn up at your door without you asking, often cold-calling or leaving leaflets.

Pressure tactics: They claim urgent work is needed, give you a limited-time offer, or insist you agree to the work on the spot.

No written quote: They refuse to provide a detailed, written quote for the work.

Large upfront payments: They demand a large deposit or the full amount of cash upfront.

Lack of credentials: They don't have a permanent business address, a verifiable ID, or a website with reviews.

Poor communication: They are vague about the work, refuse to show you examples of previous work, or use high-pressure sales tactics.

What to do if you suspect a rogue trader

Don't engage: Do not let them into your home. You can communicate through a closed door or spyhole if you wish.

Politely refuse: Calmly and firmly say no and ask them to leave. A reputable trader will respect your decision.

Do not pay: Never hand over cash for work that has been solicited by an unsolicited caller.

Research: If you do need work done, get multiple quotes from tradespeople you know or find online via trusted sites, and check their reviews.

Report them: Report suspicious activity to local authorities, such as Trading Standards, and the police if you feel unsafe or have been targeted.

You can report an issue to Trading Standards by contacting the Citizens Advice consumer service by calling 0808 223 1133 or using their online form. Have the business name, address, and any supporting evidence like invoices or photos ready when you report, as Citizens Advice will assess the report and may pass the information to Trading Standards for them to investigate.

Thank you

Northampton Neighbourhood Team

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Message Sent By
Andrew Emberton
(Northamptonshire Police, Police Community Support Officer, NN2 Northampton Dallington Spencer)