You may have seen the press release relating to Rogue Traders in Tonbridge and Rochester, this also covers the Mallings area, where we have had reports in Snodland, Leybourne and Larkfield. Damage has been caused to homes, in some instances people claiming to be builders have visited addresses after the incidents and offered to fix the damage for cash.
While investigations are ongoing into these incidents, I think it is prudent to repeat some of the advice published within the article and ask that you share this along with the link to the website. I think it also worth advising to keep an eye on neighbours/ relatives that may be vulnerable to this type of offending.
‘Kent Police is reminding residents of steps to take to deter doorstep fraudsters, who often seek to carry out work which is either completely unnecessary or substandard. Services offered will include cleaning driveways or roof and guttering repairs.
Do not deal with people who knock on your door offering work on your home or garden and if you have any concerns about their behaviour call the police.
Genuine companies will not expect cash in advance or tell you to go to the bank to withdraw money.
Use reputable traders who are members of the KCC Trading Standards approved trader scheme, run in partnership with Checkatrade.
Ask for quotes in writing and check that the tradesperson is from the company they say they are from.
Ring at least three traders to get a feel for an average price for the job.’
If anyone is concerned by activity happening at the time then the advice is call 101 or 999. If not happening then incidents can be reported via the Kent Police Website or by using the live chat function from the website.