Doorstep criminals are cunning, creative, and convincing. Anyone can be fooled as these people are professional con artists. The over 60s are targeted the most. If you wish to report suspicious behaviour from an unwanted doorstep caller, contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
You can find advice and information about how to spot and avoid doorstep criminals from Police Scotland at Doorstep crime and bogus callers - Police Scotland.
Advice for householders when considering having work carried out:
- Use a trader who is recommended to you by someone you know and trust
- Avoid traders who “cold call” or attend at your home uninvited
- Only use traders when you can be sure that that their name and address details are genuine
- It’s advisable to get three separate quotes
- Get a detailed description of work that is required as well as the work that is going to be undertaken
- Get a quote for the work to be done, rather than an estimate, as a quote is a fixed price and should not be changed after you agree to it
- Request a written contract, read it thoroughly and ensure you understand the contents
- Most contracts concluded in your home should entitle you to a “cooling off period”. It is advisable to check this is the case before agreeing to proceed
- Do not decide there and then even although they claim the price is only held for that day – this is pressure sales techniques
- You can ask for references, always check out the source of these references
- Do not pay more money than was agreed
- Do not allow traders to take you to the bank
No Cold Caller Stickers
We can provide door and/or window stickers to members of the public that tell uninvited callers to stay away. Failure by a trader to comply with such a notice is a criminal offence. Email Trading.Standards@fife.gov.uk to request a sticker.
If you are looking to employ a trader to carry out home improvements or other services in your home, Fife Trading Standards operates a Trusted Trader scheme.