Doorstop scams
This is when a rogue trader comes to your door claiming your house needs work, overcharges you for it and often does a poor job or doesn't even finish it.
How it can happen
Someone knocks on your door and talks you into paying for some work they say needs to be done on your house, like fixing the roof.
They may begin the work and ask you to start paying as they go, asking for more and more as time passes, playing on the fact you’re now committed to the work. They end up charging far more than they quoted.
They may ask you to pay for materials up front, go to buy them and never come back.
How you can protect yourself
Don’t believe anyone who turns up at your door claiming your house needs work. Before agreeing to any work, get a second opinion from a friend and a second quote from a trader you trust.
Before employing a trader or handing over any money, check them out first. Read online reviews, see if they’re members of trade bodies and trader directories.
Don’t feel pressured into buying something on your doorstep, no matter how convincing the salesperson may be. Be polite but firm and close the door.