Milton Keynes City Council is warning residents to be cautious following reports of rogue traders operating across the city.
The city council has helped residents who have been offered roof tile replacement, loft insulation, driveway cleaning and other home improvements by traders knocking on doors without notice. These traders often pressure residents into accepting work, fail to provide proper quotes or paperwork, and leave behind poor-quality jobs leading to costly repairs. In some instances, there was no evidence the work needed doing at all; some rogue traders take the opportunity of storms and other bad weather to convince local people that hard to spot damage has happened when it hasn’t.
Residents are advised to look out for the warning signs:
- ‘too good to be true’ quotes that are only available that day
- services offered at the door
- no written quotes
- requests for cash payments
- asking for money up front
The city council regularly investigates rogue traders and can potentially take them to court. If found guilty, a rogue trader can receive up to two years in prison and an unlimited fine. To stay safe, residents are encouraged to use approved traders listed on Buy With Confidence.
The city council is asking residents to report any suspicious knocks on the door or offers of services that seem unusual or untrustworthy. Reports can be made by calling 0808 223 1133.
“Rogue traders often target vulnerable people and leave them with poor quality work or out of pocket. We urge residents to be cautious, never feel pressured and try and get two or more written quotes before agreeing any work. We take this incredibly seriously and won’t hesitate to take action against dodgy tradespeople who prey on vulnerable residents.”