Rogue Traders

On Monday 7 July, an elderly couple in Brixham were taken advantage of by a group of rogue traders who tried to get a large amount of money from the couple for roofing work.  Bank Staff and Care staff have raised the alarm and the suspects have fled. The elderly couple have been safeguarded, their money saved but extensive damage has been done to their roof.

A male suspected to be involved in the incident was subsequently arrested and bailed, pending further enquiries.

The above is a common scam where people try to get vulnerable people to buy goods/services at inflated prices (eg. roofing, building, garden maintenance). It can also be a ruse to get a look at any valuables within the address for a possible future burglary. 

Please be wary of rogue traders cold calling, please do not buy anything or agree to work offered by unsolicited doorstep callers, the risks are high.

If you want work doing in your home or garden, take time to get three quotes from reputable businesses you trust and make your decision on who to use in your own time.
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 someone knocks on your door and you are not sure, don’t open the door.

If you see cold callers in the area or have concerns for neighbours, please contact Trading Standards Trading standards - Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay or ourselves via our website Home | Devon & Cornwall Police

Please phone 999 if you require immediate assistance.

Please pass this information on to neighbours, especially if they are elderly or otherwise vulnerable.