Warning over dodgy doorstep workmen
Bogus traders claim they can get council grants
Householders in Wishaw are being warned to beware of bogus roofing companies calling at their door.
Cases have been reported in the last few days, including at addresses in Cambusnethan, of workers claiming to be able to access grant funding from North Lanarkshire Council to help replace roofs.
There have also been sightings in Coatbridge.
In at least one case a significant amount of money was handed over for work which did not comply with the building regulations and was not eligible for grant aid from the council.
The council’s infrastructure convener Michael McPake said: “We would strongly advise people not to open the door to coldcalling traders.
“It ’ s all too easy for householders to be scammed out of money by doorstep criminals.
“Don’t let anyone do work on your home unless you’re sure they’re reputable and are going to be carrying out the works according to the required standards.
“We would also ask people to keep an eye out for vulnerable neighbours and relatives who could fall prey to these conmen.”
The warning comes in the same week as police confirmed they had arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with an alleged fraud in Coltness.
At around 11.30am on June 17 at Mossneuk Crescent an 80-yearold woman was the victim of an alleged fraud where a man received money to carry out roof repairs and left without doing any work.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “We responded to a number of reports from members of the public of a bogus workman in the Wishaw area taking money for work which was not carried out.
“These individuals deliberately target the elderly and vulnerable members of our communities and I would urge people to please look out for friends, relatives and neighbours and report suspicious activity to police.”
The Trading Standards team said householders should check with North Lanarkshire Council private sector team on 01698 274179 to see if any works might be eligible for a grant.
Anyone with concerns about rogue traders can call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 040506 or visit their website.
Alternatively contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
It’s all too easy for householders to be acmmed out of money by doorstep criminals