Flintshire Neighbourhood Watch warning over cowboy traders touting for repair work following Storm Ciara

OWL – Flintshire’s Neighbourhood Watch group and Trading Standards officers have issued a warning to residents about cowboy traders touting for repair work following Storm Ciara. 

The powerful storm lashed the region at the weekend with the likelihood some properties may have suffered damage.

Rogue traders often use the stormy weather as a way of persuading people that they need work done on their property – such as repairing loose roof tiles or removing damaged tree

A spokesperson from Flintshire’s Neighbourhood Watch group said:

“OWL and Flintshire Trading Standards would like to remind residents that due to the bad weather, it may be likely that traders will start cold calling offering to repair damage to property that might have occurred due to the rain, wind and flooding, such as fallen trees and guttering. 

The traders might say they can do the job immediately and for a cash amount.”

OWL is advising residents, to avoid employing cold callers to carry out such important work.

“The work may not be of good quality and may cause more damage. If you notice damage to your property caused by adverse weather, it is advised to use your house insurance or use a reputable trader.”

If you are concerned that your roof or other parts of your property have been damaged in the storm trading standards officers advise:

1. Speak to your insurance company. They are likely to have a list of approved traders and may well want to instruct them to undertake any necessary repairs themselves.
2. If you need to instruct a tradesperson yourself, ask friends and family for recommendations and look at online trader approval and review sites. Try and get at least three quotes to compare.
3. Do not agree to have work done by anyone who cold calls or door knocks at your property.

Your rights

It is also worth remembering that under the Cancellation of Contracts made in a Consumer’s Home or Place of Work etc.

Regulations 2008, consumers are afforded certain rights.

These include the right to a seven day cooling off period.

They also apply extra legal responsibilities on the trader, such as the trader must leave the consumer with a cancellation notice for products or services costing £42 or more.

If the trader does not provide you with any paperwork, they may be committing a criminal offence.

Residents are encouraged to report any incidents to Consumer Advice on: 0808 223 1133