East Dunbartonshire Council's Trading Standards team has issued a warning to residents after receiving reports of suspected rogue traders operating in the area during the recent period of warm weather. The council says callers have been offering services such as roofing, guttering, garden tidying and driveway cleaning.
Advice to residents
Officials are urging householders to be cautious and to avoid making rushed decisions when approached at the door. The council recommends residents use only firms they have researched themselves and to decline unsolicited offers from people who call without an appointment.
“Taking some simple precautions can help you to avoid falling victim to bogus callers, fraudsters and rogue traders. Please don't feel pressured into making decisions quickly – legitimate traders will be comfortable returning at a later date,”
The remarks above were made by the council’s convener for Place, Neighbourhood and Corporate Assets, who said those seeking work on their properties should check the council-backed East Dunbartonshire Trusted Trader scheme at www.trustedtrader.scot/EastDunbartonshire. The scheme is supported by Police Scotland, Trading Standards and Consumer Advice Scotland and allows residents to search for vetted local businesses and view customer feedback.
Practical steps to avoid being targeted
- Say no to doorstep traders and unsolicited callers.
- Get at least three quotes before agreeing to work.
- Check recommendations from friends or family and view independent feedback.
- Never allow unexpected callers into your home or make on-the-spot payments.
- Use official schemes such as the East Dunbartonshire Trusted Trader list to find vetted firms.
Trading Standards warns that some callers may claim to be already working in the neighbourhood or for a nearby household, and may offer to start with a small job to gain trust before asking for more extensive work. Residents are reminded not to pay in advance and not to authorise additional work without time to verify the contractor.
| Issue | Recommended action |
|---|---|
| Unexpected doorstep offer | Politely refuse and seek trusted recommendations |
| Need for home improvements | Use Trusted Trader or obtain three independent quotes |
| Suspicious behaviour or pressure to pay | Contact Police Scotland or Trading Standards |
The council said the Trusted Trader scheme promotes a code of practice that includes clear quoting, fair charging and prompt handling of complaints. Residents who are unsure about a caller or suspect fraudulent activity are advised to report concerns to Trading Standards or Police Scotland so suspicious traders can be investigated.
As warm weather may encourage more doorstep approaches, the council’s message is straightforward: take time to check, refuse pressure and use verified businesses when arranging repairs or improvements to your home.
