Good afternoon,

I am PCSO Jack Brown from Heanor & Langley Mill SNT. In recent months we have responded to a number of incidents relating to Rogue Traders. On most occasions people are quite switched on when it comes to these things but unfortunately there are times when these opportunistic criminals do take advantage of vulnerable people. 

Here are a few signs that you may be dealing with a rogue trader.

They only payment they're willing to accept is cash and offering take you up to a cash machine. A genuine trader would never do this.

Not having business cards or willing to provide contact information when requested.

Offering to do on the spot repairs. Often they will point out something minor that may need fixing and before you know it they are trying to charge you hundreds of pounds.

Rogue Traders can tend to be quite pushy and persuasive. If you feel like you're being pressured into something then you should close the door and step away.

Often, the vehicles they drive may look very unkempt and not up to a professional standard of what you'd expect from a reputable trader.

If you ever come across a rogue trader the best advice is to report it. If you are able to get details such as names or vehicle registrations, it goes along way towards the Police being able to identify and target these criminals. 

You can report through 999 in emergency or 101/Derbyshire Police Website where your report can be processed. You can also gather more advice from Citizens Advice and Trading Standards.

I hope this message provides some help and support to those that need it.

Thanks

PCSO Jack Brown

Heanor & Langley Mill Safer Neighbourhood Team