DOORSTEP FRAUD


While many reputable businesses use door-to-door selling techniques, so do fraudsters, whose clever tactics pressurise victims into buying something that they do not want or is poor value for money. Such doorstep selling may include over- priced or substandard home improvements, bogus charity collections, phoney consumer surveys, billing for work that was not agreed to, and much more.


There are specific laws relating to door- to-door sales, including the requirement for a ‘cooling-off’ period to allow the customer to change their mind or request their money back. Even if an insurance policy covers any loss, you could still be left with a damaged credit rating and all the emotional distress that identity theft can cause.


Be wary of inviting any doorstep seller into your home, as you could be opening


your door to a potential burglar or someone who will take note of your valuables and any security measures you have in place. Keep your front and back doors locked and never keep large sums of money at home.


Protect yourself against doorstep fraud


• Always ask for identification before letting anyone you don't know into your house.


• Check their credentials, including a permanent business address and landline telephone number. Mobile phone numbers may be pay-as-you-go numbers that are impossible to trace.


• Be suspicious when a trader calls on you and suggests that there are faults in your property that require urgent attention.


• Ask for references from previous customers or to see examples of their work.


• Don’t sign anything on the spot. Shop around and get at least three written quotes to make sure you’re not being ripped off.


• If in any doubt, call The Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06


(Consumer Advice works in partnership with local Trading Standards Authorities.)


• If you’re suspicious, ask the salesman if you can take their photograph on your mobile phone. If the person is legitimate, they probably won’t mind.


• Don’t agree or sign on the spot and ask them to come back once you have had time to consider.


• For the majority of contracts made at home (both invited and uninvited visits) you will be entitled to a seven day cooling-off period.


• Reliable legitimate tradesmen tend to have work booked in advance, so be wary if they offer to start work in a few days.


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