This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
Following a recent increase in the number of rogue trader reports, Isle of Wight Council is warning local residents of so called doorstep traders.
The council’s Trading Standards team has been contacted by residents who have been approached by a group of men at their front doors in the East Wight area, including several in the Bembridge area. There have also been reports from Lake and Sandown.
Offering odd jobs
The men typically offer to do ‘odd jobs’ such as gardening, tree cutting and general house maintenance.
It is known that these types of scams often target the more vulnerable members of the community, such as the elderly.
Julie Woodhouse, IW Council Principal Fair Trading Officer, said: “Unfortunately we often hear of this type of scam. Historically we have had reports of people being charged several hundred pounds for people cutting back a few branches or sweeping a driveway.
“Often the scammers will also insist other work needs doing when in reality it does not. Our advice is to never accept jobs on your doorstep and call trading standards or the police if you feel intimidated.”
Have you been approached?
The recent reports have lead to an investigation and the council are asking anyone who has been approached by traders at their home in the Bembridge, Lake, Sandown or Shanklin areas over the last four weeks, regardless of whether works were carried out as result, to make contact by calling Trading Standards on 823370 or email [email protected].
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