Why it matters: Reports suggest some callers have been "pushing and persistent" when trying to switch residents' energy providers, while others are offering driveway cleaning services that could lead to overcharging or poor workmanship.
The details: Trading Standards has received multiple reports from residents approached at their doors by individuals attempting to switch their energy provider. Some traders have allegedly used aggressive tactics to pressure homeowners into agreements.
Separately, officials have received reports of doorstep traders knocking on doors in Ipswich offering to pressure wash driveways.
What they're saying: "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," Trading Standards warned. "Do your research first, and find out if it is a product or service that you want or require."
The authority stressed that while it is "perfectly legal for doorstep traders to sell energy tariffs, as long as their information is accurate," these traders may only represent one energy company and therefore are "not guaranteed to offer the best deal in the energy market."
What to watch out for: Trading Standards advises residents to be particularly cautious of:
Traders offering immediate work or pressure washing services at seemingly low prices
Energy sellers who may not offer the best market rates
Anyone demanding immediate decisions or payment
What you should do: Trading Standards recommends:
Never agreeing to work as a result of a cold call
Getting quotes from two or three traders for any home improvements
Using Suffolk Trusted Trader for vetted and approved contractors
Asking for written quotations before work begins
Only paying once work is completed satisfactorily
Never paying in cash
For energy switching, residents should use Ofgem-accredited comparison services and check their current bills to understand their usage before making any changes.
What's next: Residents can report all doorstep callers via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133. Anyone feeling threatened should call 999.
Free "No Cold Calling" stickers are available by emailing trading.standards@suffolk.gov.uk with your address.
The bottom line: While doorstep trading is legal, residents should remain vigilant and never feel pressured into immediate agreements, whether for energy deals or home services.
