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Rogue traders are on the increase
INCREASING numbers of rogue traders are targeting South Tynesiders, according to council bosses.
Hundreds of unhappy customers are contacting South Tyneside Council's trading standards team with complaints about builders and handymen overcharging or doing shoddy work.
And fraudsters are targeting homes in South Tyneside, pretending to be from banks and TV and phone companies in an attempt to con people out of money.
Scam merchants are believed to be getting personal details of residents from various websites providing names, ages, addresses and phone numbers.
Coun Joanne Bell, the council's lead member for innovation and safer and stronger communities, has issued a warning to householders to be on their guard.
She said: "Rogue traders are unscrupulous individuals who prey on the vulnerable, and we welcome any initiative that takes a stand against this practice.
"Although our trading standards officers are very proactive, they are dealing with more and more complaints about rogue traders from unhappy customers.
"Our advice would always be to think very carefully about contracting with anyone on the doorstep."
Coun Bell said residents should always ask for proof of identification from anyone knocking on their door.
She added: "People should also be very wary of traders who do not provide a verified geographical address on their paperwork or offer cancellation rights where applicable.
"We would advise people to shop around and get written quotes, not to hand cash over without getting a receipt, and to employ traders from a recognised scheme."
The council operates a text alert system warning residents when it has reports of suspicious activity in the borough.
To sign up to the service, text the word 'doorstep' to 07786 200 802.
Coun Bell urged residents to look at the council's list of traders who have been vetted and agreed to a code of practice and arbitration scheme.
To check the list of approved traders, call 424 7878, or visit the website here.
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a rogue trader can call trading standards on 424 7897.
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Weather for South Shields
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: East
