POLICE have issued a warning over cold callers offering tree-cutting services following an incident in Stretton yesterday, Saturday.
While on patrol in the area a local PCSO was made aware of males cold calling offering tree cutting services to residents.
By chance as the information in relation to the cold callers was being passed, he found three males nearby off London Road at an address working.
He quickly established that the males had called at one address on the road and after agreeing one price for the work, it had quickly increased to include removal of cuttings, he also found out no paperwork was given to the homeowner detailing the price and the 14 day cancelling rights.
Another officer attended the location to assist with dealing with the males. Offences committed by the males were dealt with using our Community Resolution powers, this included the cold callers returning money to the homeowner. Police will also work with their partner agencies in relation to other possible offences these males may have committed.
Before they left, officers supplied the homeowner an up to date ‘No Callers’ stickers and a property marking kit for their valuables.
A police spokesperson said: “We urge residents to be cautious when dealing with cold callers, even if you need work doing to your property such as hedge/tree work, cutters or drive cleaning do not agree to work until you have spoken to family members or even trusted neighbours as often you may find you have been singled out and the work carried out will be of poor quality. A nice leaflet through your door isn’t a sign of a qualified trader.
“A genuine tradesperson should be happy to quote you for work in writing and not pressure you into having work carried out there and then, they will also be respectful of your consumer rights.
For further information in relation to your consumer rights visit the Warrington Borough Council Trading Standards website:
Alternatively, if you are visited by a cold caller or someone acting suspiciously, and you feel police should attend please call us on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
