Gardening Rogue Traders - Solihull

Good afternoon Resident,

We have been dealing with a report of rogue traders that have targeted an elderly couple in Solihull.

They called at their address and stated they were working on a neighbour’s garden and trees overhanging from their property needed cutting back. Once the work was carried out the cost escalated to hundreds of pounds. The men carrying out the work tried to put pressure on the elderly lady to go to the cashpoint and take out the extra money they were demanding. When they did not receive the extra payment they left, on leaving they caused damage to property.

We are currently investigating this crime so we can’t provide any more details at this stage. 

This is the time of year when we see an increase in rogue trader offences especially relating to gardening work and gutter cleaning and they don’t stick to particular areas. 

Please speak to older members of you family and vulnerable neighbours about not having work done by gardeners cold calling.

Tell tail signs of so-called rogue gardeners include cheap prices, verbal quotes only, no references, offers to start immediately and asking for cash up front. Claiming trees are illegal and need to be cut down is common trick of the trade.

For advice on reporting Rogue Traders visit the Citizens Advice website

Reporting to Trading Standards - Citizens Advice

If you have a tradesperson at your home demanding money and making threats, call 999 straight away.

Have a safe Halloween weekend.

Kind regards,

Jayne