Be Alert To "Rogue Pavers"
Trading Standards is warning Leicestershire residents to beware “rogue pavers”, following a spate of complaints. The County Council’s Trading Standards Service is investigating complaints about eight driveway repair companies that charge at least £3,500.
Officers are concerned about potentially illegal trading practices including some complainants who were left with faults, unfinished work and unreasonable charges. Names that have been used include Regency Drives and Patios, Stratstone Drives and Patios, and Drivemaster.
Many of the complaints have come from the south of the county. Trading Standards is warning people to watch out for companies which:
• knock on doors and drop off leaflets, but supply false phone numbers and addresses
• give people a seven day cooling-off period after agreeing work, but then start work the same day or the next day
• initially offer to tarmac a drive but then give a technical reason for using more expensive block paving
• offer guarantees that cannot be enforced
• initially carry out the work satisfactorily, until problems are shown up by bad weather
Trading Standards advises people not to agree to anything on the doorstep, but to visit the showrooms of recommended local businesses, get detailed quotes and, if they can, pay by credit card. This offers more protection in the case of faults or if the business closes.
David Bull, Leicestershire County Council’s head of Trading Standards, said: “People need to clearly say “no” to “cold callers” in these circumstances.
"It is far better to get quotes from other reputable businesses obtained through personal recommendations or after visiting the business itself to check whether they are genuine. Obtain at least two detailed quotes in writing.
"The rogue traders will take your money and leave you with a mess. We are investigating criminal offences and the offenders face possible fines and imprisonment.”
Anyone with concerns about rogue traders can contact Trading Standards via Consumer Direct, on 08454 04 05 06.