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HOUSEHOLDERS WARNED ABOUT ROGUE TRADESMEN
Householders in the Inverness area are being warned to be on their guard against traders who are targeting elderly and vulnerable residents in offering to carry out work on home repairs and garden maintenance.   Everyone in all areas should be aware of this type of trader and be wary when approached by dealers of any sort approaching you or elderly relatives at home if they have not been asked to call.

The strong advice being given by The Highland Councils TEC Services, through their Trading Standards Unit, is for residents to insist on traders producing satisfactory identification before allowing any uninvited visitor into the house to discuss the need for repairs or maintenance. If at all suspicious or concerned, residents are urged to contact Trading Standards and the Police.

Nigel MacKenzie, Trading Standards Manager with The Highland Council said: "It has been brought to our attention that unscrupulous traders are targeting the elderly and vulnerable residents in certain areas of Inverness. Our concern is that these particular rogue traders are calling on residents claiming that they are connected with The Highland Council and then advising them that they have to carry out work on roofs, gardens and other general household and property repairs."

Councillor David Munro, the Councils spokesman for consumer issues, said: "This is the time of year when rogue traders will be going round the houses, seeking to exploit the elderly and vulnerable. The message to residents is to ask for identification before allowing any uninvited visitor into their home.  Residents should contact Trading Standards and their local Police if they are at all concerned about any callers they receive at their door."

Anyone with a concern should contact the Consumer Advice Line on 0845/600/4222 or visit Trading Standards at: Trading Standards Unit, 38 Harbour Road, Inverness IV1 1UF.