Be Alert for Rogue Traders…
Police Inspector Ben Shardlow shares news on rogue traders and increased patrols his teams have been focusing on in Totnes.
Increased foot patrols in the town centre are seeing reduced incidents
Following concerns from local people about seeing an increase of anti-social behaviour including street drinking and fighting, our teams have stepped up foot patrols in the town centre to strengthen our presence. Whilst it’s not always possible, we know that regular patrols are a great way to make our streets safer. It makes residents, business owners, and visitors feel safer. While also providing a strong deterrent to those looking to commit crime.
I’m pleased to share that since having more police presence on our streets at peak times, we’ve seen less reports of crime and anti-social behaviour. A positive result in helping to make Totnes safer. You will continue to see more police officers in the town and surrounding areas. Please make sure you give them a wave hello or have a chat when you see them.
Please stay vigilant to rogue traders
As we move into spring and approach the warmer months, we’d like to remind you to stay vigilant for rogue traders offering home and garden services. Rogue traders are often skilled at manipulating circumstances. They will likely offer sub-standard services, employing deceptive tactics, and overcharging for their services. Of course, there are reliable traders who do a wonderful job, but please remember to use those who are recommended by people you know.
When looking for a business to carry out work at your home, such as plumbing, roofing, gardening etc please consider the following advice:
- Don’t agree to work offered by unsolicited doorstep callers
- Don’t rely on posts or recommendations from social media sites without doing your own research
- Don’t be swayed by glossy flyers or impressive websites – they may not always show the trader’s own work
- Don’t pay cash, agree to be taken to the bank, or transfer money before any work is started
- Don’t be rushed into making a decision
- Do get three written quotes from reputable businesses
- Do research the companies you’re looking to use and ask for references
- Do ask friends and family to recommend local traders, or search via Buy With Confidence
- Do take time to decide who to use and make sure you have confidence in their skills and abilities
- Do ask to see professional qualifications, public liability insurance and, if applicable, waste carriers’ licence
- Do make sure you have full contact details (address) for a tradesperson and not just a mobile phone number
- Do check if you’re entitled to your 14-day cooling-off period
If you have concerns, or have any information regarding rogue traders, please contact Trading Standards. 01392 383000 or call Devon & Cornwall police on Tel 101; if possible, please make a note of any descriptions and vehicle registrations seen. Please phone 999 in an immediate emergency, or if a crime is taking place.
Your information is vital to our investigations.
Please remember, that your information and reports, no matter how small, can really help to make a difference to our investigations. Your information may just be the missing piece to help us identify a potential suspect, so, please continue to report on our website, call us on 101, or make an anonymous report though Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111.
Meet your local police team
Talking to and meeting your local police officers is a great way to share any concerns you may have, whether you tell us about where you feel unsafe in Totnes, or a road that people speed on, we want to listen to you. Please join one of our regular meetings, so come along and meet our team face-to-face.
Here’s our next date:
Friday 12 April 2024 at Totnes Methodist Church, 10am onwards
Please do come along if you’re able to – it’s great to meet and hear from the people we’re here to protect.