Roofing Scammers Con Homeowners Out of Thousands of Pounds - BBC News
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Roofing Scams: A Growing Concern
Scammers targeting homeowners are charging substantial amounts for roofing work that is either incomplete, of poor quality, or not even necessary. This deceptive practice has been highlighted by Citizens Advice, a consumer advice charity.
One in 10 scams reported to them last year were related to roofing, making it the most prevalent type of scam brought to their attention. The story of Crystal, from the Midlands, serves as a stark example. She was left with a compromised roof and substantial financial loss after falling victim to such a scam.
"We had heavy rain... and it ended up like a waterfall coming down the wall." - Crystal
Impact and Statistics
In the year leading up to August, Citizens Advice received 9,000 complaints related to roofing work, encompassing issues with construction, repairs, and weatherproofing. Among these, approximately one in four (2,205) were suspected scams, a slight increase from the previous year.
Dame Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, cautioned consumers to conduct thorough checks on traders before hiring them:
"Scammers exploit the fact that roofs are out of sight and reach..."
Preventive Measures
To shield themselves from such scams, Citizens Advice recommends the following:
- Be alert: Always request references and written documentation. Be cautious of unsolicited visitors.
- Gather evidence: Document issues with photos and relevant paperwork if a trader causes problems.
- Know your rights: Traders must provide you with information about your right to cancel in writing, and you are entitled to a refund or corrective work if the job lacks reasonable care and skill.
Lord Bichard, Chair of National Trading Standards, denounced rogue traders as "criminals deliberately preying on people in their own homes," adding that roofing fraud is particularly egregious.