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# Suffolk residents urged to check on elderly neighbours after storms
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/suffolk-residents-urged-to-check-on-elderly-neighbours-after-storms/
- Published: 2024-11-28T14:30:01.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:29:12.000Z
- Description: Trading Standards is calling on Suffolk residents to help protect vulnerable neighbours from rogue traders who may try to exploit recent storm damage for profit.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Scams & Consumer Safety, #article, Suffolk Trading Standards, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**Why it matters:** Rogue traders often target elderly and vulnerable people after extreme weather events, charging excessive prices for unnecessary or poor-quality repairs.

**The big picture:** Trading Standards receives numerous complaints each year from residents who have been defrauded by doorstep scammers, with some cons involving thousands of pounds.

![Storm damage scam](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1732804136-storm-scam-1.png)

Trading Standards is calling on Suffolk residents to help protect vulnerable neighbours from rogue traders who may try to exploit recent storm damage for profit

**What they're saying:** "No one should feel pressured into making a rash buying decision," a Trading Standards spokesperson said. "If in doubt always think twice and get a second opinion."

**How to help your neighbours:**

- Check their property for storm damage
- Remind them not to agree to work from passing traders
- Share details of vetted traders from Suffolk's Trusted Trader scheme
- Encourage them to check their home insurance policy for emergency assistance coverage
- Report suspicious activity to the Citizens Advice consumer helpline

**Be smart:** Before arranging any repair work, Trading Standards advises residents to:

- Never pay for work before completion
- Decline offers to be driven to the bank
- Obtain recommendations from trusted sources
- Visit [https://trustedtrader.team/Suffolk/](https://trustedtrader.team/Suffolk?ref=ipswich.co.uk) for verified traders

**The bottom line:** Communities can help protect their most vulnerable members by staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activity to the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

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