Maidenhead & Windsor

Windsor and Maidenhead Royal Borough trading standards officers have issued a warning to local residents who could suffer property damage during this week’s floods - be wary of opportunist rogue traders offering to carry out quick clean up and repair jobs.

Steve Johnson, Windsor and Maidenhead trading standards manager, said: “Anyone who suffers flood damage to their house or garden should always contact their insurance company before organizing any repairs or clear-up work.

“It’s very tempting to accept the first offer that comes along, but this doesn’t always guarantee that you’ll be happy with the outcome. Our advice is to follow some simple steps to reduce the risk of being ripped off.”

Officers have put together the following tips:

· be wary of any trader who turns up unannounced and offers to do work. A short-cut may look quick and cheap but could be very costly in the long run and the trader may be untraceable

· before you organise any repairs contact your insurance company. Some insurance companies may arrange approved traders to repair damage on your behalf, but if you organise your own repairs, check what will be covered

· talk to family, friends and neighbours to get recommendations for reliable traders, or look for a trader who is a member of an approved code scheme

· think about getting written quotes (not estimates) from at least three traders

· consider making staged payments and keeping back a significant part of the cost until the repair job has been satisfactorily completed. If you do this, you can ask for defects to be put right without the need to make a claim or go to court for compensation

· if you are buying goods or services costing over £100, pay by credit card as you may be able to claim your money back from the card company if the trader fails to honour the contract.

Anyone who experiences problems with traders, or who needs further advice, should call Trading Standards on 01628 683802.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead