Burnham-On-Sea residents have this week been warned to avoid falling victim to rogue traders who could leave them thousands of pounds out of pocket.
It comes after a Burnham homeowner was visited by a group of ‘rogue traders’ earlier this month who tried to convince her to have a whole roof replaced at huge expense even though the work was completely unnecessary.
Trading Standards officers at Somerset County Council said they have seen an increase in such complaints from people across the area who have reported cases of poor work commissioned by traders touting their business on doorsteps.
People are also being warned to be aware of door to door salesmen selling security systems with high annual maintenance fees and cleaning material sellers who claim to be part of a scheme to help ex-offenders.
County Council spokeswoman Lyndsey Mayhew told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Trading Standards officers advise residents not to make rushed decisions, consider whether the work needs to be done, agree on a price before the work starts and have everything confirmed in writing.”
“The trader must give a cancellation notice telling customers that they have seven days to change their mind.”
“Work can still be cancelled even if work has already started although this may incur cost. If work is to start before the seven day cooling off period has ended, the trader must get the request in writing.”
