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Doorstep callers

Salford Trading Standards works to protect consumers and residents from unwanted doorstep callers, such as rogue traders and charity canvassers.

One effective way to deter such callers is by displaying a 'No Cold Callers' sign, which is available to download below. This helps reduce the likelihood of businesses, particularly unregulated ones, that may attempt to sell products or services that are not in your best interest, or even engage in fraudulent activities. Cold callers often pressure individuals into making hasty decisions or purchases, and a 'No Cold Callers' sign can help reduce these encounters, giving consumers more control over their interactions. It ensures that you engage with services or offers on your own terms, rather than facing unexpected visits or aggressive sales tactics. Additionally, under consumer protection laws, repeated visits from cold callers after displaying the sign could be considered harassment. Trading Standards encourages this practice as a way to help you assert your rights and avoid undue pressure.  

If you are a Salford resident and would like Salford Trading Standards to send you a free No cold callers door sticker, please send an email to trading.standards@salford.gov.uk and include the following information:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Would you like a no cold caller sign? Yes or No
  • Would you like a scam awareness visit? Yes or No 
  • Contact email address
  • Contact telephone number

Doorstep fraud

Rogue traders will often call uninvited and pressure residents into agreeing to go ahead with work at short notice. The work they provide is often grossly overpriced and very poor quality. They often use pressure tactics to extract additional payments. They will often not provide clear and accurate business details. They often target vulnerable individuals, the elderly, and those who may be less familiar with the home improvement process, leaving them financially exploited and often with unsafe and unsatisfactory work completed.

Below are some tips from Trading Standards to help people avoid falling victim to these scammers:

  • Do your research: Always research the background and reputation of a trader or builder before engaging their services. Check for reviews, testimonials, and online presence to gauge their credibility.
  • Get multiple quotes: always get quotes from at least three different traders to make a fair comparison of pricing and scope of work.
  • Ask for references: Request references from previous clients and follow up on them to gather honest feedback about the quality of their work and professionalism.
  • Ask for written agreements: Insist on a written contract outlining the business details, terms, costs, and timeframe for the project to ensure clarity and accountability.
  • Avoid cash payments: Don’t make cash payments upfront and use a secure payment method that allows for traceability.
  • Trust your instincts: If something feels too good to be true or if a trader exerts undue pressure on you to make quick decisions, step back and reassess the situation.

Downloadable documents

If you are unable to view documents of these types, our downloads page provides links to viewing software.

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