In the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, unscrupulous traders are preying on vulnerable residents in Scotland, offering questionable services at inflated prices. Authorities warn of heightened risk and provide guidance on avoiding scams.
Rogue traders are exploiting the devastation left in the wake of Storm Éowyn , targeting vulnerable residents across Scotland . Trading Standards officials have issued a high alert for communities, warning of unscrupulous firms taking advantage of homes severely damaged by the storm. Winds reaching up to 100mph wreaked havoc on the country, leaving thousands without power and causing significant property damage. Roofs were ripped off homes, tiles dislodged, and garden fences and sheds destroyed.
With many seeking quick repairs, authorities have emphasized that Scots are at a heightened risk of falling prey to scams. Police forces across Scotland have confirmed receiving reports of traders attempting to exploit the situation just days after the storm. In Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, police have reported residents being approached door-to-door by traders offering services to remove fallen trees and clear storm debris. A Police Scotland spokesperson stated, 'We have received reports that people are trying to take advantage of the destruction caused by the storm last week. We are aware that people are going door to door offering services to remove fallen trees and clean up debris from the storm. They are handing out leaflets that contain false and misleading information.' Meanwhile, in Dumfries and Galloway, police warn that rogue traders have swept through the region, carrying out subpar work and demanding excessive payments beyond the initial quotes. A statement on the division's social media page cautioned, 'With Storm Éowyn now passed, we are aware that it left significant damage to properties. You may have been busy trying to get someone to come and repair or make safe the damage caused to your property. We are aware of rogue traders who have been operating throughout the region offering to carry out work, then carrying it out to a very poor standard and demanding more money than originally quoted. Rogue traders will knock on your door or drop a leaflet through the door. It can be tempting to use these people as you are concerned that further damage may be caused to your property if the repair is not done immediately.' Trading Standards Scotland has also provided guidance to help people avoid rogue traders during the Storm Éowyn cleanup. Councillor Maureen Chalmers, chair of the board at Trading Standards Scotland, said, 'We are aware that in the wake of Storm Éowyn that consumers may be at heightened risk of falling victim to rogue traders offering to carry out remedial work on their homes. We would offer the following advice to anyone who is cold called by a trader at this time - Always research any company before you engage them to do work on your property. It is a good idea to get at least 3 quotes for any work and we would recommend that you use the SCOTSS|Approved Trader Directory website to find traders that have been vetted by your local trading standards service. Legitimate traders will be happy to give you some time to make a decision before contracting with them. You should never feel pressured into agreeing that someone carries out work on your home, if you feel threatened then you should contact Police Scotland on 101. If you have had work done and you are not happy either with the sales process or the quality of the work then you should contact advice.scot.
Rogue Traders Storm Éowyn Scotland Scams Repairs Consumers Trading Standards
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