Roofing Scams: A recurring scam involves traders who remove existing roof tiles and then claim beams need urgent, expensive strengthening. Once the roof is open, they inflate the price by thousands of pounds for unnecessary work.

Retail Park Disruptions: Police have prioritized tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) and aggressive begging at Great Bridge Retail Park and the High Street. 

Doorstep Cold Callers: Residents have reported tree surgeons demanding immediate cash payments for substandard work. In one recent case, a vulnerable resident was pressured for a second £500 payment after just a few hours of work.

Illegal Tobacco Raids: Sandwell Trading Standards continues to conduct raids, recently seizing over £150,000 worth of illegal tobacco, vapes, and counterfeit goods concealed in sophisticated hidden compartments (e.g., hydraulic cupboards). 

Impersonation: Criminals may pose as council staff or utility workers to gain entry to homes, often targeting the elderly by claiming repairs are needed.

Escalating Costs: Initial low quotes for gardening or roofing are frequently followed by claims of "unexpected problems" that double or triple the price.

Aggressive Sales: Traders often offer a "today only" discount or drive residents to a bank to withdraw cash. 

Immediate Danger: Call 999 if a trader is at your door and refusing to leave or acting aggressively.

Non-Emergency Reporting: Contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service at 0808 223 1133. They pass all reports directly to Sandwell Trading Standards.

Local Updates: Sign up for WMnow alerts to receive specific crime warnings for your Tipton or Great Bridge, princes end postcode.