Cumbria County Council Trading Standards officers today warned householders to be on the look out for bogus property repairers cashing in on the flood and storm damage.
The department is already receiving complaints & enquiries from Carlisle residents that the doorstep conmen are out touting for business.
Phil Ashcroft, Head of Trading Standards said
"I am extremely sorry to have to warn the public that the bogey men are out & about looking to cash in on the misery & desperation to get roofing and other repair work done. There have been lots of examples over the last few days of everybody pulling together, of mutual support, and of great kindness. Unfortunately there is another side to some people, and we are beginning to see it.
My advice is not to agree to work being done on your home by people calling door to door unless you know the business and that they are local, with a good track record. I know everybody wants to get back to normal as soon as possible, and to protect their home from further damage, but dealing with cowboys now will only lead to further problems and of course the usual overcharging."