Warning on pushy cold callers offering to clear roof moss
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Trading standards chiefs in Northamptonshire has issued a warning about cold callers following a string of complaints about doorstep salesmen offering to clear moss from their roof.
Northamptonshire County Council’s trading standards service said a number of worried consumers had contacted them after they were quoted a price to have moss removed before then finding the price had either increased or they were being pressured into having unnecessary work done.
The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) Ltd, said it had also received an “unprecedented” number of calls from members of the public, about moss removal, which is usually followed up with the tiles being painted in order, so it is claimed, to prolong the life of the roof.
A county council spokesman said that while the NFRC was a dedicated roofing trade association for more than 120 years, it had never recognised the practice of moss removal or roof painting as a true roofing discipline because, in most instances, moss on roof tiles was rarely a problem and only needs to be removed if it is blocking gutters, outlets and other drainage points on the roof.
Councillor Ben Smith, cabinet member for environment said: “Our advice is always very clear – don’t buy goods or services from someone who cold calls at your door. Our simple message, which is supported by Northamptonshire Police, is IF YOU’RE NOT SURE DON’T OPEN THE DOOR.
“If you do wish to have work done on your property, we recommend you use the Buy With Confidence scheme, which is operated by trading standards. Traders who are part of the scheme are stringently vetted and continuously monitored for legal compliance.”
To find a trader who is a member of the Buy With Confidence scheme visit www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/approvedtraders or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.