Bogus workmen warning: Edinburgh police say these are the signs to look out for

Rogue traders will often look genuine, have a branded van, a website, and business cards.

Police have issued a warning to Edinburgh householders to be aware of bogus workmen, following a spate of recent incidents during lockdown.

According to the police, the most common types of work offered by rogue traders are roofing, driveways and gardening.

Police say bogus workmen mainly operate during the spring and summer months, when lots of people are looking to get work done around the house and garden.

Police say bogus workmen mainly operate during the spring and summer months

"Don’t be afraid to say no and don't be embarrassed as genuine callers expect you to be careful,” say Police Scotland. “If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door and report the incident to police.

“It's not easy to spot a rogue trader. They will often look genuine. They will look professional, have a branded van, a website, and business cards.”

Police say bogus workmen will:

– Offer to do small jobs cheaper than competitors. However, once started they claim that urgent and more expensive repair work is needed on your property when this is not the case.

– Claim they can start immediately and offer special discounted deals if you pay in cash now, trying to rush your decision.

– Complete similar work in your area to give you confidence in them. However, scammers have been known to finish one job in order to get into a local area. They then go on to scam, mislead and overcharge additional customers in the surrounding area.

– They can have a local telephone number and claim to have a local business premises. Telephone numbers can now be purchased and business units can be let short term. Scammers will often go to great lengths to make you believe they are local.

– They may even drive a branded vehicle and have a website that they can direct you are able to supply a business card.

To find out more about spotting doorstep crime, click here.

Incidents can be reported to Police Scotland on 101.

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