Hampshire County Council Scam Alert

 The caller offered to seal and waterproof the outside of the residents’ property.  They stated there was nothing to pay, as there is a Government Scheme that the resident could claim their money back through.

 Residents are advised that there is no such Government Scheme, and not to agree to having the work carried out.

Trading Standards advise residents not to agree to work instigated by of a cold call.  For any work, best practice is to obtain at least 3 written quotes from reputable businesses or traders who are either members of the Hampshire County Council Trading Standards ‘Buy With Confidence’ Scheme, or a recognised trade association.

Members of the ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme are fully audited to ensure their trading practices are legal, honest and fair.  All members have been checked for trustworthiness and compliance with consumer protection laws. Details can be obtained by telephoning 01962 833620, emailing [email protected] or via the website www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

Traders who agree work at the home of an individual or at a place other than their usual business premises are required by law to provide consumers with a Notice of Right to Cancel, which gives a 14 day cooling off period from the date the work starts.   Even if work has started, there is still a legal right to cancel, although some payment may be required for materials.

For enquires, or to inform Trading Standards about companies offering the above services, please call our partners at the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.  Where possible, please try to obtain a name and address for the company.