Cornwall residents warned after rogue traders charge £2,000 for jet washing

A warning has been issued following several reports of rogue traders going door to door in residential areas of Cornwall offering to clean roofs and driveways. According to Cornwall Council, the prices quoted were up to £2,000, although the work should cost less than a quarter of that price.

The tradesmen reportedly offered to jet wash a sample area of ​​the building to show the difference their work would make. After the initial work was completed, the resident felt pressured to allow the work to continue rather than leave it unfinished.

Trading Standards has now issued a warning to residents following the reports. People have been advised to be “extremely cautious” about agreeing to work.

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Councilor Martyn Alvey, cabinet member responsible for Public Protection at Cornwall Council, said: “Our officers have followed up on reports from the public and are concerned that this group is targeting older residents.

“We urge residents to be extremely cautious about agreeing to work following a cold door call. Where possible, only use trusted companies, such as those that are members of the Shop with Confidence scheme for trading standards.”

Gary Webster, group leader of Cornwall Council’s trading standards team, said: “The law requires traders who accept home services to provide written information about the contract and the services they offer.

“This must include a 14-day cooling off period where you can change your mind. They should not pressure residents to agree to work starting immediately.

“If you are concerned that you may have been a victim of this or that there are suspicious traders operating in your area, please report this via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.”