Weather brings out the rogue gangs

 

Trading Standards have received a rush of complaints over the last week from residents visited by gangs or salesmen offering gardening or tarmac work.

 

The Powys Community Safety Partnership is warning householders not to use these gangs who bring with them a history of charging extortionate amounts for substandard work.

 

Clive Jones, Powys County Council’s Principal Trading Standards Officer, said: “Some residents are tempted by offers of cheap work but in our experience the work is extremely poor which often needs re-doing at further cost to the resident.

 

“Anyone thinking of having any work carried out should consider all aspects very carefully and ensure that the prices quoted are fair and reasonable, including the total price payable on completion of work. Also get a number of quotes before committing to any work as we advise not to take these instant approaches because they are not the great value they seem.

 

“Doorstep sellers offering gardening or other services seem to offer quick solutions to your needs but can cause a lot of grief. So if you’re ever in doubt, keep them out.”

 

Residents are also warned that the gangs may have an ulterior motive to wanting to carry out the work.

 

Inspector Brian Jones of Dyfed Powys Police, warned: “It is important that householders don’t allow anybody access to their homes or premises without first checking and verifying identification.

 

“If residents see traders they are not happy with or who are acting suspiciously then they should record the vehicle description and registration number the person was using and report it to our 101 telephone line or if it is an emergency telephone 999.”

 

So what to do if you get a knock at the door for work?

 

- Note the names and address of the persons concerned

 

- total price payable

 

- any guarantees or warranties

 

- note the registration number of any vehicles used or seen

 

- cancellation rights

 

For more information or to report a suspected rogue trader, contact your local Trading Standards office on 01686 617524 or Dyfed Powys Police on 101.