Rogue traders

It has been brought to the attention of police that rogue traders have been operating in the area of Milton-under-Wychwood.

An elderly resident was recently targeted after a group of men knocked at their door claiming they had been carrying out work nearby and asked if they would like some gardening work completed. The traders remained at the address for approximately an hour and a half, carrying out some tree cutting and leaving a considerable mess behind. They advised the resident they would return the following day to tidy up, however they failed to do so and instead charged the resident £3,500 for the work undertaken.

With the warmer weather and longer daylight hours, rogue traders often become more active, using the opportunity to target residents with offers of gardening, roofing, paving and other outdoor maintenance work.

The Buy With Confidence scheme is a Trading Standards approved register of businesses that have been vetted and approved to ensure they operate in a legal, honest and fair way. It helps members of the public find trustworthy local traders for services such as gardening, roofing, building work and home improvements. 

Using a Buy With Confidence trader can give you extra reassurance, as businesses on the scheme have undergone checks including trading history, customer service standards and complaint handling.

Before agreeing to any work, consider checking whether the company is part of the scheme. This can help reduce the risk of falling victim to rogue traders or poor workmanship.

To find an approved trader, visit Buy With Confidence Buy with confidence

What are rogue traders?
Rogue traders are individuals or groups who often cold-call at properties offering services such as gardening, roofing or driveway repairs. They may appear friendly and convincing, but often carry out poor quality, unnecessary or incomplete work at hugely inflated prices.

Please remember:
• Do not feel pressured into agreeing to work on your doorstep.
• Never agree to work from someone who cold-calls unexpectedly.
• Always get at least three quotes from reputable companies.
• Ask for recommendations from family, friends or neighbours.
• Check reviews and credentials before agreeing to any work.
• If you feel pressured or unsure, ask them to leave and contact a trusted person.
• If you believe a crime is in progress or you feel threatened, call police on 999.