Householders warned to be on their guard against rogue traders

Latest figures released by Consumerline during National Consumer Week reveal there were nearly 700 doorstep selling complaints in Northern Ireland in the last year.

Home improvements, sales of mobility aids, tarmacing and paving, and repairs to domestic appliances topped the list of complaints.

Nearly 200 complaints were received for uninvited doorstep traders.

To protect the vulnerable, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment’s Trading Standards Service is joining forces with the Office of Fair Trading’s (OFT) Doorstep Selling campaign, empowering local residents to deal with untoward doorstep sellers, including those who are invited into the home after a cold call sales approach, and specifically traders offering mobility aids or home improvement and repair services.

Damien Doherty, TSS Area Inspector says: “Not all doorstep sellers are bogus, however, unlawful traders can be unscrupulous. A charismatic salesperson can be intimidating and it is easy to fall for their charm. This is a skill often used by rogue traders, to convince vulnerable people to buy a mobility aid or home improvement service they may not need, or agree to terms they haven’t fully checked out.

“I’m urging everyone who knows or cares for a vulnerable, elderly person to make sure they are aware of their rights when it comes to suspect door step approaches and carefully research salespeople before inviting them into their home. No one should feel pressured into making a rash buying decision. If in doubt always think twice and get a second opinion.”

He continued: “While it is not illegal to canvas for work door to door, rogue doorstep trading, both invited and uninvited, remains a serious issue for vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly who live alone. Decisions made on the doorstep can result in a great amount of distress for those who are duped out of money for substandard products or services. It is crucial to be aware of your consumer rights and share this knowledge.”

They also advise people if they are approached by cold callers not to sign on the spot, check the trader’s identity, be wary of special offers or warnings about your home, always shop around for the best price, read the small print and always check the facts, trust your instinct and talk to someone you trust for a second opinion and never hand over a cash deposit.

If you feel pressured for any reason ask the person to leave. If in doubt, visit http://www.consumerline.org or call the Consumerline on 0300 123 62 62.