Watch out for Cold Calling Criminality

We have been made aware that there may be cold callers, offering services such as roof repairs, in the Totnes area. If you feel you have been a victim of crime we would urge you to please contact Devon & Cornwall Police as soon as possible.

While the Totnes Neighbourhood Police Team are not aware of any specific criminal incidents or intelligence of this nature in recent weeks we would welcome any information the public can pass on. The team will increase patrols to reassure residents. If you see officers out and about please come up and have a chat.

Police do tend to see a rise in cold callers or scams as the weather improves and vulnerable people, who may wish to make home improvements, can be taken advantage of.

If you want work doing in your home or garden please consider the following advice:

·  Don’t agree to work offered by unsolicited doorstep callers.

·  Don’t rely on posts or recommendations on social media sites without doing your own research.

·  Don’t be swayed by glossy flyers or impressive websites as they may not show the trader’s own work.

·  Don’t pay cash or agree to be taken to the bank or immediately transfer money before any work is started.

·  Don’t be rushed into making a decision.

Do:

·  Get three written quotes from reputable businesses.

·  Research the companies you’re looking to use e.g. ask for references and look online.

·  Ask friends and family to recommend local traders or search via Buy With Confidence

·  Decide who to use in your own time and make sure you have confidence in their skills and abilities.

·  Make sure you have the full name of the company and the person doing the work and their contact details (address, phone number, email).

·  Ask to see professional qualifications, public liability insurance and if applicable waste carriers licence.

·  Check if you’re entitled to your 14-day cooling-off period

If someone knocks on your door and you are not sure, don’t open the door.

If you are concerned someone is at risk, always call the police.
If you are concerned rogue traders are operating in your area, always report it.
If a company claims to be working with a local council, contact the local council yourself to check this is true. (The SHDC Number is 01803 861234)
If you have concerns, or have any information please contact Trading Standards or police by phoning 101, if possible, please make a note of any descriptions and vehicle registrations seen.

Please phone 999 if a crime is taking place or someone is in imminent danger. Other incidents can be reported via the Devon & Cornwall Police website or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Please pass this advice on and for more local updates please follow Totnes Police on Facebook.