Doorstep callers reported in Lowestoft

Suffolk Trading Standards have received a report of traders going door to door in Lowestoft, offering to clean guttering, fascias, soffits and bargeboards. The traders are travelling in a white van that advertises their business as a driveway contractor.

Our normal advice is to never agree to anything, including a home visit, when approached by a cold caller on the phone, at your door or via email. Do your research first, and find out if it is a product or service that you want or require.

While it might be tempting to agree to low prices being offered on the doorstep, think twice.

 never agree to have any work done as a result of a cold call, and don't be pressurised into having the job done immediately
if you think work needs doing to your home, get quotes from 2 or 3 traders. Ask friends and family for recommendations of traders who have carried out work for them. You can also check Suffolk Trusted Trader for traders that have been vetted and approved by Trading Standards: https://trustedtrader.team/Suffolk/
 ask for the full name & address from a trader before considering dealing with them, and never rely solely on a mobile phone number
 ask for a written quotation detailing all the proposed work and a final price for the job BEFORE the work is started
 only pay in full once the work is completed to your satisfaction and don't pay cash

Report all doorstep callers to us via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

If you would like to receive a FREE No Cold Calling sticker for your door, please email Suffolk Trading Standards with your address, to trading.standards@suffolk.gov.uk