Thursday 1st May 2025

Sussex Alerts - Increase in doorstep crime and rogue trader reports

Increase in doorstep crime and rogue trader reports

Police in both Lewes and Eastbourne have seen an increase in reporting of rogue traders and doorstep crime in the last few weeks.

Namely reports of individuals targeting elderly or vulnerable members of the community offering services for ‘roof tiles and gutter replacements’.

If you have elderly or vulnerable family members living in the area, we kindly ask you pass on the message and raise awareness.

Our top tips to share with loved ones include:

• Do not be pressured into opening or allowing individuals you are not expecting to enter your home.
• Be suspicious of all ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals.
• Question when tiles or gutters were last done, you know your home better than anyone.
• Don’t hand over money or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company’s.
• Speak to family members prior to agreeing any work IF you think it needs doing
• Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever there’s no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.

If you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or to Action Fraud online.

Call us on 101 if you know the suspect or they’re still in the area.