Beating the bogus caller

Through the press, television and other media, 'rogue trader' has become a familiar term and one that may summon a particular type of person. But who really are rogue traders? Well, rogue traders are any 'company' or individual who offers services on the doorstep, often with little or no means of identification, and go on to fleece or rip off their victims.

Like distraction burglars, rogue traders will knock on the door, saying they are working in the area, and will point out something like a loose tile on the person's roof or that their drive needs resurfacing. They grossly over charge and then come back again and again, taking more money each time. They may even charge without completing the work.

Victims are often vulnerable, elderly and/or isolated people who know nothing of these scams and so are trusting of anyone who is friendly or seems knowledgeable and genuine. After they have become a victim, they often feel ashamed and/or scared and so don't tell anyone. This not only means the original scam goes unreported but it also makes it easy for the rogue trader to return for more. The stress of the victim's shame or fear may also go on to cause physical or mental health problems. And even if the traders are reported they are often untraceable as they will have given the victim false contact details or none at all.

So, who exactly are rogue traders and how do you recognise one? Well, the way in which rogue traders describe themselves are as various as distraction burglars. The most common variety are those offering home improvement or maintenance such as building works, roofing, guttering, chimney sweeping, gardening/landscaping and driveway repairs. However, they may also be offering home security improvements and alarm fitting, digital television installation or trying to sell mobility equipment. There are some tell-tell signs that can help identify a rogue trader. They may be a rogue trader if they:

• Make an unsolicited call to a victim saying they are 'working in the area';
• Offer to do work for cash;
• Are intimidating or create a sense of fear;
• Suggest they can start working immediately;
• Give a cheap quote at the start of works that then sharply rises;
• Demand more money after an agreed price;
• Return at future date asking for more money;
• Pass on details to third parties.
• Offer to escort the victim to the bank or building society;
• Ignore a request to leave;
• State repairs are needed when in fact they are not; or
• Cancel the works without notice.

The best advice to avoid becoming the victim of a rogue trader is to get a quote for any work that needs doing from a reputable company - try asking freinds or family for recommendations. If you're unsure whether you have been visited by a rogue trader call Trading Standards on 020 8871 7720 or Community Safety on 020 8871 7696 for advice.