Three Men Demand £300 After Forcing Driveway Clean on 81-Year-Old
An 81-year-old woman was targeted by three men who jet washed her driveway without permission on Saturday 11 March 2023. The trio then demanded a hefty £300 payment for the unsolicited work.
The suspects fled when a relative confronted them at the Edenbridge address near Station Road. No money changed hands. They fled in a white Ford Transit van displaying an Irish number plate.
More Reports of Doorstep Scammers in Sevenoaks
Kent Police received similar reports two days later, on Monday 13 March, from the Broomfield Road area in Sevenoaks. Witnesses spotted at least two men persistently knocking on doors, offering to clean driveways.
The suspects this time drove a silver Toyota Hilux. Police believe both incidents are linked and warn residents to remain vigilant.
Police Warn: Don’t Fall for Doorstep Cleaning Scams
Inspector Matt Atkinson of the Sevenoaks Local Policing Team said: “Some criminals exploit vulnerable people by charging outrageous prices for unnecessary or poor-quality work. Residents should not deal with cold callers offering driveway cleaning, roof repairs, or garden maintenance. Please keep an eye on elderly neighbours and report any suspicious activity immediately.”
How to Protect Yourself From Rogue Traders
- Always refuse unsolicited doorstep repairs or maintenance immediately.
- Never let traders pressure you into agreeing to work.
- If a trader refuses to leave, call 999 without hesitation.
- Never accompany a trader to the bank or cashpoint – legit traders don’t do this.
- Use only reputable tradespeople from the KCC Trading Standards approved trader scheme (kent.gov.uk).
- Request written quotes and verify the tradesperson’s company identity before hiring.
