Residents in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week been urged not to buy from cold callers following an increase in doorstep crime.
Council trading standards teams in Somerset have reported a rise in complaints from residents about rogue traders.
The news comes as a campaign is launched during National Consumer Week, which runs from 12th-16th November, to encourage people to say ‘no’ to cold callers.
Cllr David Hall, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Trading Standards, said: “Many consumers are not aware that when work costs over £35 traders must give them a written notice of their rights, including a cancellation form.”
“Rogue traders will also often choose not to advise their customers of their legal rights to cancel the contract within 7 days. If the trader fails to do this, they are committing a criminal offence and do not have a legal right to demand payment.”
The campaign is highlighting tips for residents on how to deal with unwanted doorstep sellers and protect themselves against being conned by rogue traders, such as not paying in cash, asking for a written detailed quotation and comparing other quotes.
The most common complaints are in relation to household maintenance work, such as gardening, driveway work and roof repairs, and the victims tend to be elderly and vulnerable.
Residenys can get more guidance on their consumer rights or to report a dodgy cold caller to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer service on 08454 04 05 06. Anyone feeling threatened should call the police on 999. More information is also online here.
