Rogue Traders Target Nottinghamshire’s Vulnerable with Dodgy Doorstep Scams
Nottinghamshire Police have reported a sharp rise in doorstep scams where rogue traders prey on the vulnerable. Residents are being hit by cold callers pushing shoddy goods and sky-high bills for unnecessary or incomplete work.
How the Scams Play Out
- Traders offer poor quality goods or services and overcharge.
- Unnecessary work is quoted to rake in big money.
- Property is deliberately damaged to force costly repairs.
- Jobs are left unfinished, leaving victims out of pocket.
- Intimidation tactics are used to extort more cash.
Shocking Victims’ Stories
A nottingham/" title="Nottingham" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Nottingham man in his 60s was conned out of over £100,000 after being pressurised into three rounds of roof work. The “repairs” were poor and not worth what he paid.
In Kirkby-in-Ashfield, a frail lady in her 90s was bullied by two men into accepting a £2,000 garage roof repair quote. Thankfully, a neighbour’s timely intervention scared them off empty-handed.
In Hucknall, an 81-year-old woman shelling out £20 for new roof tiles was then twisted into paying £800 for unnecessary extras. Family members got the police involved.
Meanwhile, in Retford, a bogus roofer swindled thousands in upfront payments from three homeowners before vanishing without doing any work.
Police Issue Strong Warnings and Advice
Sergeant Sally Collins from Nottinghamshire’s Fraud Protect team revealed the surge began in May with 13 reports, rising to 14 in June alone.
“One rogue trader simply wrapped Sellotape around a chimney, claiming he’d fitted flashing,” said Sgt Collins. “They take advantage of elderly customers too frail to check the work.”
“Many victims cave under pressure just to be left alone.”
Sergeant Tara Clapperton added:
“They scare people with claims like ‘Your roof will fall down!’ Some have paid thousands for just a few tiles.”
Nottinghamshire Police have jailed offenders like 64-year-old David Aves, who got three years for failing to deliver goods after payment. But officers stress prevention is key.
“Victims often won’t give evidence, especially elderly ones who can’t or won’t go to court,” Sgt Collins explained. “So stopping these crooks before they strike is crucial.”
How to Spot and Stop a Scam
- No written quote? Don’t pay or agree. Get itemised quotes from several tradespeople first.
- Pressure to decide NOW? Walk away and consult friends or family.
- No online presence or reviews? Be suspicious. Check websites and social media.
- Can’t show local work? That’s a red flag. Legit traders have happy customers nearby.
- Asked to withdraw cash to pay up front? Never pay full price before work is done. A small deposit is okay, but not the total sum.
Sgt Clapperton’s clear advice to anyone facing doorstep traders:
“Say ‘no’ firmly but politely. Don’t feel pressured to buy on the spot. If they get nasty or refuse to leave, call 999 immediately. For less urgent concerns, call 101 or report online.”
For more tips on avoiding doorstep scams, visit Take Five’s guide.
