Avoiding Scams

No one likes to feel that they’ve wasted or, even worse, been conned out of their money. Unfortunately, there are plenty of situations in which you can act in good faith and suddenly find you’ve come off worse from a transaction.

Here are some top tips and hints to help you stay aware and safe in your home:

Take your time – A common feature of a scam is the pressure to commit yourself very quickly. You may be told that an offer is only available for a limited period, or that by signing now you’ll get a discount on the usual price. Don’t feel pressured to say yes – stop, think and say no!

Is it clear what is being offered? – Before buying a product or service, or making an investment, make sure you understand fully what the offer entails so you can make an informed decision. Make sure your get a written quote with a breakdown of costs before going ahead with any work in your home.

Checking a company’s credentials – Don’t hand over any money or give them any personal information before verifying who you’re dealing with. Do they have a postal address? Are they a part of any associations e.g. Gas Safe Registered? Remember – A professional business would never turn up at your door unannounced.

Ask a friend, neighbour or family member – Don’t be pressured into making any payments or signing documents until you’ve had a chance to think about things or discuss them with family or friends. A reputable company will not try to force you into an instant decision. Take your time and shop around to see whether you’ve been offered a good deal.

Remember that if you sign a contract for a purchase above £35 from a seller in your home, in most cases you have at least seven days to change your mind (the ‘cooling off’ period). This applies even if you invited the salesperson into your home. However, if your seller is a rogue trader and you can’t trace them, your consumer rights may not be of much use.

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