Why it matters: The incident highlights ongoing concerns about doorstep traders targeting vulnerable residents, with Trading Standards officers having to intervene to prevent further exploitation.
The details:
The uninvited trader approached the resident's property around 19 December
A verbal agreement for £2,500 was agreed for roof work
No paperwork was provided, and the trader left no contact details
The trader claimed scaffolding would be erected and work completed this week
Trading Standards Officers have since implemented measures to prevent the trader's return
What they're saying: "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," warns Suffolk Trading Standards.
Be smart: Trading Standards advises residents to:
Get quotes from two or three traders
Ask for traders' full names and addresses
Request detailed written quotations before work begins
Never pay upfront for materials
Avoid cash payments
Only pay once work is completed satisfactorily
How to help: Anyone with information about traders operating door-to-door in the IP4 area before Christmas or details about vehicles or individuals involved should contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
The bottom line: Residents seeking trusted traders can use Suffolk Trusted Trader, a vetted directory maintained by Trading Standards, rather than accepting unsolicited doorstep offers.
