Doorstep crime

Doorstep Crime is where someone comes to the door uninvited and tricks the householder into letting them in so they can steal or otherwise persuade the householder to hand over money. They may pose as officials such as gas or water employees, trying to sell something or seek payment for doing a job typically gardening, driveway surfacing or roof maintenance. It also includes people who persuade householders to part with money for goods and services that they never see or are charged extortionate amounts for shoddy goods or services. 

Some traders are genuine, however others are not.  Use the information below to ensure you are prepared and know how to deal with callers.

Preventing Doorstep Crime

Citizens Advice Bureau provide advice on doorstep selling

Know Your Rights

It is important that you are aware of your statutory rights when purchasing goods or services on your doorstep.

The Doorstep Selling Regulations give you protection when purchasing goods and services on the doorstep or in the home. They are explained on the Citizens Advice Bureau website .

Reporting An Incident

Don't be afraid to report anyone who is suspicious to the police. You should call them on 101 to let them know about a suspected rogue trader or call 999 if a rogue trader has taken money from you and is in your home or still in the local area. You should also call 999 if you think someone is a distraction burglar.

Flintshire County Council and North Wales Police are two of the many partners in a joint initiative aimed at making Flintshire an undesirable area for doorstep criminals.  Trading Standards and the Police will take enforcement action against rogues where possible but we rely on the people of Flintshire to report incidents to us.

Remember, it is your doorstep, your decision.

Contact us

Consumer advice telephone: Welsh 0808 223 1144, English 0808 223 1133

Business advice telephone: 01352 703181(We only give business advice on matters between a business and a consumer, we do not give advice on matters that are business to business)

Email: trading.standards@flintshire.gov.uk

Write to:
Flintshire County Council Trading Standards Service,
Planning, Economy and Environment Directorate,
County Hall,
Mold,
CH7 6NF

Visit:
Ty Dewi Sant,
St. David’s Park,
Ewloe,
Flintshire

Our Office hours are 8:30 to 17:00 Monday to Friday