Scams which fleeced people in Lincolnshire out of £92,000 last year could be just the tip of the iceberg, it is feared.
Lincolnshire Trading Standards believe the true figure for the amount of money residents handed over to conmen in the last 12 months could be in the region of £1.6million.
But it’s feared people are failing to report incidents, possibly through embarrassment at being taken in by a con – leaving the scammers free to go on to target others.
The problem has been highlighted by Trading Standards ahead of National Consumer Week, which runs from November 3 to 7.
People are being urged to be more cautious and help out family members, friends and neighbours who could also fall victim to a scam.
Last year, Trading Standards received reports of 67 residents being caught out by rogue traders and a further 121 complained after pushy visitors had insisted they needed building or maintenance work on their home.
It is estimated that between 80 and 90 per cent of incidents go unreported, meaning another 1,600 people may have been targeted.
Trading Standards revealed details of one case elsewhere in Lincolnshire in which a couple were targeted by bogus builders who claimed to be doing roofing work in the area.
After handing over £1,800 for work to begin, the couple became unhappy with the standard of the work and the workmen were creating more work by taking up parts of the roof.
The couple handed over a further £350 to sort the issue out, meaning they spent more than £2,000 in total and are still suffering the consequences of the shoddy work.
One of the victims said: “I’d warn anyone who is looking to have work done to hire someone reputable and to sign a contract.
“I am angry and upset but it is a mistake we made and unfortunately it is easy to be fooled by these people.”
Sally Gray, senior Trading Standards officer, said: “We would advise people to always get three quotes for any work or services that are required, and if you are unsure then ask for recommendations from family and friends or a neighbour.
“Tradesmen who are busy have no need to cold call or tout for business. Never agree for work to be started straight away, think about it first and never trade in cash on your doorstep. If you’re not sure – don’t open the door.
“If you do see that a neighbour is being harassed, please make sure that they are ok and don’t need any help. If we are all good neighbours we can stop rogue traders!”
If you think you’ve been a victim of doorstep crime, please call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506 or visit www.adviceguide.org.uk.
