When you require repairs or renovations to your property, it’s instinctive to reach out to a credited tradesperson. You’ll often rely on recommendations from trusted acquaintances. It’s not commonplace to assent to significant work on your house by a stranger who has approached you unbidden. Though many door-to-door tradespeople might be sincere and skillful, exercising caution is always prudent.
A baffling situation was faced by a homeowner in Glasgow when an uninvited solicitor claimed their roof required an expensive overhaul.
The homeowner queried:
A door-to-door tradesman, after attending to my neighbour’s roof, indicated a problem with mine that would cost approximately £3,000 to rectify. I’m skeptical and fear a scam. How can I identify potential signs?
The response of Advice Direct Scotland:
Defending yourself against potential ‘doorstep scammers’ by recognizing red flags is crucial. Regrettably, some deceptive individuals pose as certified tradespeople in common doorstep scams.
Typically, a genuine tradesperson will not randomly arrive at your doorstep, and certainly won’t pressurize a sale. If a supposed tradesperson claims your property requires immediate and previously undetected repairs, resist any pressure to proceed.
In such instances, it’s crucial to seek a second opinion. Validate the trader’s identity by researching the company’s name, locating a landline number, and confirming an established trading address.
When considering any home improvement or construction project, don’t agree to the first trader you encounter. It’s sensible to compare quotes and seek second opinions before scheduling any work. Trustworthy traders can offer advice on the necessary repairs.
Trading Standards approved traders can be found on platforms like trustedtrader.scot who may provide quotes for the required work. Prior to any work commencing, request written terms and conditions or a statement of works, and ensure comprehension of all agreements made.
‘Express terms’ must be included in any contract. These represent agreed terms when purchasing from a trader and are incorporated in the contract.
Never advance a payment or part with money without proper documentation. Fully understanding all terms and conditions, including cancellation rights, is essential. Knowing the difference between a quote and an estimate is also crucial.
A rough idea of the cost is an estimate; a fixed price is a quote. Unless a genuine error was made in cost calculation, or additional work was agreed upon, traders can’t charge more than the original quote.
Try to avoid cash transactions. Paying by credit or debit card offers more protection under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 if problems arise. Traders providing services over £42 must provide 14 days written cancellation rights. Failing to do so is a criminal offense potentially investigated by Trading Standards.
Finally, don’t feel uncomfortable asking people to leave your property. Persistent solicitors can be requested to return at a later date with a friend or family member present. Immediate work offers, deadline-specific discounts, or on-the-sopt decisions may indicate potential scams, as genuine traders usually agree to return when it’s convenient.
If you’re concerned about a trader or suspect a scam, consumeradvice.scot provides free, practical, and impartial advice on an array of consumer subjects. They can refer cases to Trading Standards for further investigation. Reach out to their team at 0808 164 6000 or dial in to www.consumeradvice.scot.
For impartial advice on various topics, connect with advice.scot at 0808 800 9060 or online at www.advice.scot. Their services are free and available to everyone in Glasgow and Scotland, regardless of individual circumstances.
