Beware of doorstep fraudsters
Residents of Hythe are being urged to remain vigilant following reports rogue traders have been targeting properties in the area.
It is alleged, between 12 February and 14 July 2024, a trader who had offered to carry out repairs at a house in Palmbeach Avenue took money from the owner and failed to complete the work. The victim claimed that parts of the house had been left unsafe and, after raising the issue, was told that the trader was not able to make it good.
On 20 July, residents in Sellindge reported suspicious behaviour involving two men attempting to sell cleaning services door-to-door, who were alleged to be reluctant to leave when their services were declined.
Police were also made aware of an incident in Hillside Street, Hythe on 24 July.
It was reported that a resident had paid money to a man to have equipment installed at their house but, upon contacting the relevant company, no money had been received. The man allegedly refused to return the money and is no longer engaging with the victim.
Inspector James Wyles of Folkestone district’s Community Safety Unit, said:
‘While officers are investigating these incidents I would strongly urge residents to be careful about who they allow to complete work at their homes.
‘Don’t be afraid to ask them for identification and if you have any doubts about a caller at your door, ask them to leave and come back at a time when you can have a friend or relative with you.
‘Whilst we work with partner agencies to protect the most vulnerable in our community, I would encourage people to look out for one another and report anything suspicious straight away by calling 101 or dialling 999 if a crime is taking place.’
Anyone with information that may assist officers with their enquiries into the reports is asked to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/117833/24. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or complete the online form.
More advice
- Doorstep fraudsters generally seek to carry out services that are either completely unnecessary or substandard. If cash is paid in advance, they will often leave without starting any work.
- Services offered may include cleaning driveways, gardening or roof and guttering repairs.
- If someone knocks at your door, always refuse on the spot repairs or maintenance.
- Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into agreeing to have work carried out. If you ask them to leave and they don’t, contact the police on 999.
- Don’t ever go to a bank or cash point with a trader; legitimate traders would never do this.
- Use reputable traders who are members of the KCC Trading Standards approved trader scheme, run in partnership with Checkatrade.
- Ask for quotes in writing and check that the tradesperson is from the company they say they are from.