Kent Trading Standards: Folkestone area targeted by workman scam

5.35.08pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 23rd Jul 2010

Residents in Folkestone, Dover & Deal have reported being called upon this week by person who claims he needs access to their property because he is working on the house next door or he has previously done work on their home. He claims that he needs to do remedial drainage work and / or install dehumidifiers in their home to remedy the problems the neighbours are having.

The man then follows up the visit with telephone calls asking for large cash deposits of thousands of pounds for equipment that he needs to hire. If the householder refuses to pay the trader threatens to take court action and becomes aggressive. The man is described as short, 45, stocky build with fair / reddish short hair, and an unusual accent. He uses a Dover telephone number. No vehicle has been reported. This is a scam.

If you receive such a call at your door report it to the Police and Trading Standards immediately. Do not give out your telephone number, name or bank details and do not hand over any money or disclose whether you have any cash in the house.

If you have been targeted in this way by someone using the same tactics, please report the matter to Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 and the Police.