Last year more than 80 households reported criminal traders to Lincolnshire Trading Standards. On average over £3,300 was stolen from each home. 

Criminals target our homes in order to exploit us for money – they may knock at our doors and tell us there is a problem on our roof that we cant see and offer to repair it quickly for us. 

Legitimate builders do not call door to door and they would never expect you to pay upfront for their services.

Criminal traders are known to use trader recommendation platforms to exploit homeowners. They use fake reviews and images to create a sense of reliability. 

It is important that our roofs are well maintained. If you are looking to have work done on your roof then you can get information here Roof | Lincolnshire

Getting work done on our homes can be stressful. When hiring tradespeople, it’s important not to feel pressured, instead take a step back and follow some basic steps.

✅Check if you need planning permission or approval. 

✅Get a range of quotes and check if your preferred trader has insurance and is a member of an approved trader scheme, like Buy with Confidence or TrustMark.

✅Before committing to work, be sure to get a written contract, which can help you get what you paid for.

If you experience fraud, please report it to Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040.

For Consumer Advice contact Consumer - Citizens Advice or call 0808 223 1133.