Police warn about cold callers in Derriford and surrounding areas
Devon and Cornwall Police have today issued a cautionary message to residents of Derriford and the surrounding areas including Widewell, Tamerton Foliot and Glenholt regarding unsolicited cold calls offering various services, including pressure washing and rubbish clearance services.
They are urging residents not to accept services offered by unsolicited doorstep callers as the risks can be high.
As an alternative, the police suggest that residents who need work done in their homes or gardens get quotes from three reputable and trusted businesses before deciding whom to hire. This ensures a safe and secure transaction and protects their rights as consumers from rogue traders.
A local policing spokesperson said: “Residents are encouraged to contact the police if they suspect that someone is at risk, or to report any suspicious activity if they see or hear about potential rogue traders in the area. If someone knocks on your door and you're not sure, don’t open the door. Please follow these steps to ensure you remain safe:
- If you want work doing in your home or garden, take time to get three quotes from reputable businesses you trust and make your decision on who to use in your own time.
- If you are concerned rogue traders are operating in your area, always report it.
- If a company claims to be working with a local council, contact the local council yourself to check this is true.
- If you see cold callers in the area, have concerns, or have any information please phone 101, if possible, please make a note of any descriptions and vehicle registrations seen.
- Please pass this information on to neighbours, in particular any elderly or vulnerable neighbours you might have.
The police stress that homeowners should not open their doors if they are uncertain about the identity of the individual outside. Additionally, residents should contact their local council directly to verify whether a vendor's claim regarding their relationship with the council is legitimate. Please aways phone 999 if you think a crime is taking place.
If you have information about illegal doorstep activities please contact the police by calling 101.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org
If you wish to make a complaint about a trader or report a matter to Trading Standards, please phone the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06.
Anyone wanting work carried out on their homes can contact a Trading Standards approved local business at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk
