Officers from Leicestershire County Council Trading Standards are warning residents to be on high alert following a rise in complaints about rogue roofers and home improvement scams.
Over the past 12 months, 84 complaints have been received relating to roofing and general home improvement work – with 77 reported since January across the county.
Many of these cases involve cold callers who approach residents claiming to have spotted a loose tile or offering to inspect the roof while working nearby.
Once on the roof, these traders often start with a low quote, only to claim further extensive repairs are needed - such as replacing felt, broken tiles, or even an entire roof. In many cases, these claims are entirely fabricated to inflate the price and pressure residents, particularly the vulnerable, into agreeing to costly and unnecessary work.
Victims have reported being harassed, threatened, and even escorted to the bank to withdraw large sums of cash.
In some instances, the work carried out has been dangerously substandard, leaving roofs sagging, leaking, or in worse condition than before. Others have paid thousands for little or no work at all.
These rogue traders prey on the most vulnerable in our communities, using fear and intimidation to exploit them financially. The consequences go far beyond poor workmanship - they can lead to serious structural issues, invalidate insurance policies, and cause lasting emotional distress. We urge residents to be cautious and follow our guidance to protect themselves and their homes.
Person:Councillor Virge Richichi, cabinet member for regulatory services
Leicestershire Trading Standards is working closely with police to take action against rogue traders, and has issued a checklist to help residents avoid falling victim to doorstep scams:
- Never agree to work from a cold caller
- Research traders online - check reviews and recommendations
- Verify company details on Companies House if they claim to be a Limited Company
- Get at least three quotes from different tradespeople
- Check business addresses via the Royal Mail website
- Insist on written contracts detailing the work and final price
- Avoid paying in cash or cheque - use secure methods like bank transfer or credit card
- Don’t pay upfront for work that hasn’t started
- Be wary of traders who say they can start immediately
- Know your rights – for contracts over £42, you have 14 days to cancel
- If a trader offers to take you to the bank, this is a red flag. Tell the trader that you need to speak to a family member to sort out the payment and need time to arrange for the money to be in the bank, in order to get rid of them. You can then call the police on 999 if you feel threatened or 101 in a non-emergency
- Speak to friends or family before making decisions
- Contact your insurance provider for advice on approved traders
For more advice, call Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133 or visit the website.
You can report a rogue trader to Leicestershire Trading Standards.