Rogue Trader Advice

WARRINGTON residents are being urged to keep their wits about them regarding scammers.

Cheshire Police has issued a rogue trader warning in the town, encouraging people to have a long think before accepting work on the doorstep.

It comes as many will be considering hiring traders to carry out work to their gardens during the current period of warm and sunny weather.

The message for households is to not be afraid to say no, and to report anything suspicious to officers.

The force’s Warrington Police team said: “With the weather being as nice as it is at the moment, there are many residents going outside to enjoy the weather, and to get their gardens ready for summer.

“The change in season also sees an increase of cold callers offering gardening or property services.

“Often, these traders are not qualified to carry out the work offered, will change the price once work has started, and leave you with substandard work which often you will need to pay a genuine trader to finish off.

“If you are thinking of having work done, contact traders yourself, as professional looking leaflets through the door are not a sign of a genuine contractor.

“Speak to neighbours who may have undertaken work by a trader or check out the Warrington Borough Council website for a list of approved traders.

“If you are visited by a cold caller, do not agree to sign a contract or hand over money at the door.

“Think about it and talk to someone you trust. Do not be embarrassed to say no to people, or to ask them to leave.

“If you pay or agree to pay more than £42 for any services or goods that are sold to you in your home, then you have 14 days to cancel the agreement.

“If you cancel, any monies that you have paid should then be returned to you. The trader must give you a written notice of your cancellation rights when you agree the contract.

“If you are visited by a cold caller and you feel they may not be genuine, please call us on 101, or 999 in an emergency.”