Look out for rogue builders and cold callers

The Building Control team would like to remind you to be wary of any tradesperson calling uninvited at your home offering to replace roof tiles or repair/clean guttering.

The team has been told of two instances in recent days (June 2024) where callers visited the homes of potentially vulnerable people offering such services.

Typically the work the callers are offering to do is unnecessary and when small repairs are done it is not unheard of for householders to be told that much more extensive work is then required at a hugely inflated cost. A simple gutter clean can lead to tiles being deliberately removed which then require replacing.

As well as these two instances the team is receiving calls from concerned residents who have had uninvited visits from people representing insulation companies telling them their roof insulation needs to be removed as it is dangerous. They then offer a service to fit ‘government approved’ insulation.

If you need work done get quotes. Speaking to friends and neighbours for recommended tradespeople is also a good idea. Trading Standards Checked is a local safe trader scheme, find out more at https://tschecked.kent.gov.uk/.

If you have vulnerable family members or neighbours please remind them of the importance of never employing someone who cold calls at their door. They might appreciate you putting a no cold callers sign near their door.

If you or someone you know is worried about a caller at the door, please phone the police.