Warning Issued by Police Regarding Cold Callers Targeting Residents
Residents in the town of Great Sankey have been warned to be cautious of cold callers offering tree pruning and gardening services after a recent incident left a resident with a messy garden and a badly pruned tree. Cheshire Police responded to reports of cold callers in the Liverpool Road area, where several residents were approached with offers for gardening work.
Residents Left Dealing with Unwanted Waste and Unexpected Costs
According to reports, after accepting a quote for tree pruning work, residents found themselves in a difficult situation when the price increased significantly from £140 to £400 once the work began. In addition to the inflated costs, the initial quote did not include the removal of waste, leaving residents to deal with the aftermath of the job.
One resident, in particular, was left with the task of arranging waste removal and faced the disappointment of a poorly pruned tree on their property. This serves as a cautionary tale for others who may be approached by cold callers offering similar services.
Police Urging Vigilance and Caution
The Warrington Police team has urged residents to remain vigilant and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity in their neighborhood. They advise residents not to feel pressured into agreeing to work from cold callers, even if the services offered may be appealing.
Residents are reminded not to sign any contracts or hand over money at the door without careful consideration. It is important to take the time to think about the offer and consult with someone trusted before making any decisions. If residents feel uncomfortable or unsure about a cold caller, they are encouraged to say “no” and ask them to leave.
In addition, residents are reminded that if they agree to pay more than £42 for services or goods sold in their home, they have the right to cancel the agreement within 14 days. If the agreement is canceled, any money paid should be returned to the resident. Cold callers should provide written notice of cancellation rights at the time the contract is agreed upon.
If residents encounter a suspicious cold caller or feel that they may not be genuine, they are advised to contact the police at 101 for assistance.
Residents are encouraged to share this information with their neighbors to help prevent others from falling victim to similar scams. By staying informed and cautious, residents can protect themselves and their property from potential harm caused by unscrupulous cold callers.