Advice on Hawkers

Do not buy services at the door and don't part with any money as an advance or deposit.

If a caller becomes persitent close the door and ring the Police.

Some of these people use intimidating tactics so be sure you know who is at the door before you open it.

Always use your spy hole and a door chain.
Examples of suspect traders:-
Driveway resurfacing (at great expense) Also beware of opportunist and bogus callers treat all unsolicited callers with caution.
Remember -
'IF IN DOUBT-KEEP THEM OUT'
Every year thousands of people let strangers in to their homes, who subsequently steal money and possessions. Bogus callers may be of any age or sex or appearance and give a number of reasons to persuade you to let them in, they claim to be an' official' may be dressed smart or have a uniform and even a ID card. If your not expecting a prearrange visit from an organisation, check out the identification before you let them in. Remember representatives of a bona fide organisation will not mind waiting outside while you telephone to check.

Follow the
DOORSTEP code:-

Don't open the door without using the DOORSTEP code.

Observe first- look through a window or door viewer.

Only open your door after connecting a door chain or limiter

Record the caller's desscription and car number

Swith on outside lights when its dark to see who's there.

Think 'Thief!'. Don't leave strangers alone in your house.

Examine identity cards- genuine officals always have them - if you are still unsure, call their head office.

Protect yourself -if unsure of the caller, send them away and contact a neighbour or the Police.

Bogus Traders - Doorstep initiative

Essex Trading Standards were very pleased to tell us of recent legislation that allows Trading Standards the power to prosecute traders who do not give the consumer a written 7 day notice of cancellation, a 'cooling off period'.
The legislation now makes it a Criminal Offence if doorstep traders do not supply customers with a written 7 day notice of cancellation for unsolicited visits for goods and services over the value of Ł35.
Door to door 'salespeople' frequently target the elderly and infirm, carring out shoddy, sub-standard work for exorbitant prices.
This new legislation now allows Trading Standards to prosecute sush sellers if they do not comply with the 7 day notice. Advice and information can be obtained from Essex Trading Standards at Chelmsford on 01245 341888
they are open 9 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Friday.
The services of Trading Standards are free and they are experts in the field - please use them before you part with your hard earned cash.

Beware of callers in your area
We have had a number of reports of callers aggressively selling double glazing. knife sharpening and tools We cannot say that these callers are all bogus, but think before you buy. If they become aggressive close the door and call the Police if you feel threatened. Please keep a look out for your elderly neighbours - they may be vulnerable.

Eastern Energy (Electricity) Meter Reading
Eastern Energy have informed us that its Meter Reading service has been renamed to 'Siemens Metering Services' and that all their Meter Readers will be dress in Siemens Uniforms by the 1st of September 2000.
If unsure always ask for proof of identification, and/or phone the company to substantiate.

Also beware of bogus phone calls trying to make an appointment, but in fact hoping to find out when your away on holiday or a weekend break. If in doubt don't tell them anything. Instead, look up their offical number in the phone book and return the call.

Other Pages

Unwanted Calls