POLICE in Northwich have warned of ‘rogue trader’ roofers using 'pressure' tactics to target households in Moulton.
Officers say at least two men are involved and advise people not to accept offers to do work or repairs from traders knocking on the door without prior arrangement.
The group's strategy is for one man to knock on the door while another climbs a ladder towards the roof, making residents feel pressured into employing them.
Police have warned people to stay vigilant as they believe several Moulton householders have already been affected, with one report, not yet confirmed, suggesting someone handed over £3,000.
They suggest anyone witnessing suspicious activity to note registration numbers, details of signage on vans, descriptions of the men and their names, and any tactics they’ve employed.
This information should be passed on to Trading Standards immediately.
A spokesman for Northwich Police said: “We have been alerted to possible rogue traders knocking on people’s doors in Moulton enquiring about roofing jobs which can be done for the resident.
“Whilst one male knocks on the door, another male is already halfway up ladders which have been placed when the householder answers the door, therefore putting pressure onto the resident.
“We have been alerted of a couple of residents who have already been affected by this within Moulton.
“Please keep yourself and others safe from this.
“If you need work doing to a property, do not accept offers from someone knocking on your door. Instead, seek a reliable business or professional.
“Do not hand money over until work has been completed, and never feel pressured into doing this.
“Ensure a contract is issued for the work being done including the amount to be paid. A reliable business or professional will provide a contract to be signed.
“We have advised all affected by this to report it to Trading Standards, with all information they have including vehicle registrations, business names, names of males, descriptions, and what’s happened.
“PCSO Robertson has spoken to all who have reported this and have advised the above.
“He will be doing patrols around the area and officers have been given the vehicle details so it can be tracked when hitting ANPR cameras or seen in the area.”
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