Doorstep caller incident in Harlington area
Date Added: 05/07/2021
Act with caution if you ever receive an unexpected caller at your home
The Trading Standards team has received reports of an alleged doorstep crime incident in the Harlington area.
An elderly resident has received an unsolicited visit to her home from a doorstep caller, who is described as a white male, stocky build, approx. 5ft 7in, hazel eyes, wearing a peaked cap and work overalls possibly marked with paint stains.
The doorstep caller claimed that he was working at a nearby building site and had noticed that the resident's roof had some tiles missing and offered to help repair the problem.
The caller asked if he could go into the resident's loft space to inspect the so-called damage closer. The resident gave the caller permission to do so and shortly after he returned with photos he had apparently taken in the loft, showing daylight where a roof tile was missing and then also handed the resident a piece of torn roofing felt. It was later established that the caller had himself removed the missing tile and torn away a section of roofing felt.
The caller then advised the resident that repairs would cost over £1000 and that he would need £350 immediately so he could go and buy the materials required. Concerned that repairs were needed, the worried resident paid £350 to the man, who then left, supposedly to buy materials. In fact, the caller did not return.
Unfortunately, the resident has lost £350 of their own money as a result of this experience, but could have potentially lost even more had the caller returned to do any of the work.
Trading Standards are advising all residents in Central Bedfordshire to be on their guard and act with caution whenever they receive an unexpected visitor or knock at their door.
Do not agree to purchase any goods or services which are being offered to you by an unsolicited doorstep caller. Please also carefully check the identity of anyone visiting you before letting them into your home.
If you are concerned that any work may need doing or are interested in what is being offered, our advice is to always shop around first and obtain quotes from local reputable traders. You can even contact local businesses that have been approved by Trading Standards professionals by visiting Buy With Confidence.
If you ever suspect a rogue trader or suspicious doorstep caller, please report it to us by calling 0808 223 1133
Please help protect others from falling victim to similar incidents like above, by telling your family, friends and neighbours about this alert.
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