Trading Standards offer some advice on dealing with unwanted visitors
THE growing trend of bogus callers visiting vulnerable consumers in the Highland area is causing concern to Trading Standards officers of The Highland Council. And they made this the focus of their efforts to mark National Consumer Week in November, when Community Safety was the theme.
Trading Standards officers provided consumers with help and advice so they can make the right choices when buying goods and services at home or when approached on the doorstep.
Nigel MacKenzie, Head of Trading Standards, said: “It is particularly distressing to hear that old and vulnerable people in our society are being preyed upon by rogue traders. It has become apparent that some consumers have been repeat victims of cowboy traders who feel that they can pressurise people into paying for shoddy work on home improvements such as driveways, roofing repairs and building work.
“Full details of the extent of the problem do not always reach us and when they do it is all often too late for us to act.” Mr MacKenzie added that with the help of Paul Lee, Inverness manager of Age Concern (Scotland), the Council recently carried out a survey throughout the Highlands which focused on two areas of concern:
Consumers can visit their local library and ask for a free leaflet called Doorstep Selling - Know Where You Stand.
Consumers can also contact our Consumer Advice Line on 0845/600/4222 for further information about doorstep buying rights.
Consumer Advice Line is available Monday to Friday, between the hours of 9am to 5pm or the public can write to Trading Standards Unit, 38 Harbour Road, Inverness. All advice is free and confidential. For further information contact Nigel MacKenzie, Head of Trading Standards (Tel 01463 228700).
Many doorstep sellers are honest and genuine. However, some aren’t - and they may use lines like these in order to get into your home:
“Congratulations! You've won a prize! If you could just sign here for it…”
“I noticed you've got a few loose tiles on your roof…”
“There have been a lot of burglaries in the area recently…”
“This cut-price special offer is only available if you sign today…”
“I’m doing a survey…”
Most legitimate market researchers carry an identity card, which you can ask to see. If you’re in any doubt, call the Market Research Society free on 0500 396999. And if someone says they work for a charity, for the Council or for the social services, they should be able to show you proof.
Remember, you can always say ,"I don't buy from doorstep sellers" and close the door. If a doorstep seller refuses to leave, dial 999 and ask for the police.