Doorstep crime refers to rogue traders, bogus callers and distraction burglary. Whilst we do have genuine callers at our doors there are unfortunately those that exploit people in their homes.This includes people that knock on your door, phone calls, leaflets the rogue traders put through the letterbox and false use of logos to appear genuine.
Some of the most common types of rogue trader doorstep crime scenarios are:
- “We are only in the area this week” – You shouldn’t engage with anyone that you cannot contact again. This time pressured approach should be avoided.
- “There are loose tiles on your roof” – Pressure and worry can make people make hasty decisions. Contact a reputable trader in your area if you are concerned.
- “It’s a cheap price as we have left over materials from a job down the road” – offering a bargain price could result in you buying poor quality materials or in many cases the price increases as soon as the work starts. There could also be the risk that the goods or materials are stolen.The simplest way to avoid rogue traders is not to engage with them, say no thanks and stick to it.
If you feel unsafe call the police.If you have had a doorstep caller that you suspect is suspicious report it to our local , this might help to reduce the risk of someone else being a victim of the rogue activity.
More information about finding a reputable trader can be found here –
Alternatively, to see the approved traders by trade go to Islefindit.org.uk/approved traders
You can also contact your local to find out if you live in a ‘No cold calling zone’ or find information about setting one up if you and your neighbours are concerned about nuisance doorstep sellers or rogue traders.They aim to decrease doorstep crime incidents but making it clear that doorstep callers are not welcome.
For advice or to report a trader contact Citizens Advice consumer helpline:
Call the police if you feel at risk or are concerned for a neighbour.
Beware imposter ‘Citizens Advice’ Cold Callers
Imposters claiming to be from Citizens Advice are cold calling people offering help with accident claims.We will never contact you to sell you something or, for example, to offer you a loan.
What to do if you think it’s a scam
If you are cold called or get a text about things such as loan offers, help with debt problems or accident claims – it is almost certainly a scam.Make sure you:
- don’t give or confirm any personal information
- report the call immediately to Action Fraud on or at www.actionfraud.police.uk/report-a-fraud-including-online-crime
- contact your local Citizens Advice for free, confidential and impartial expert advice to help resolve your problems.
When we might contact you
Someone who is genuinely connected with Citizens Advice will only want to know about your satisfaction with our service and if your problem has been solved.If you have used our service including our and given us permission to contact you, you may receive a call from us or one of our partners to get your feedback.
Getting help from us:
Find out how you can
In particular, we have information on
Other Helpful Links:
Adviceline: (free)
Textphone:
*Adviceline is open 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday