Trafford Council is urging residents to be cautious of cold callers knocking on doors to offer building services or home repairs.
Trading Standards officers have received reports of overcharging for shoddy work – especially targeted at older or vulnerable householders.
Advice is not to worry about politeness – and firmly tell such callers to leave.
Typical scenarios include people saying:
Overcharging for work, doing it badly or not at all, misleading people or acting in an intimidating or threatening manner, make such actions criminal behaviour.
A spokesperson for Trafford Council said:
“Such doorstep offences are an invasive from of fraud. Perpetrators use misinformation and intimidation to overcharge for home repairs.
“Posing as tradespeople — such as roofers, gardeners or gutter cleaners — these criminals target the vulnerable.”
The Council advises that the safest approach is to be cautious of all unsolicited callers. Householders should never allow a stranger to assist with a bank transfer or escort them to a cash machine.
Trading Standards officials recommend always getting a written invoice before any work begins as protection against future disputes.
Video doorbells are also a powerful deterrent, as they identify callers and record conversations in real-time.
The spokesperson continued:
“Most importantly, if you feel pressured, ignore ‘politeness culture’ and firmly tell them to leave. If they refuse, but you do not feel in danger, contact 101. If you feel threatened or in danger, call 999.”
Vetted platforms such as Checkatrade and Trustmark can be a good way to find legitimate tradespeople. Householders are urged to obtain three quotes and be wary of ‘too good to be true’ offers that often signal substandard materials.