HOUSEHOLDS across Dorset are being urged to be vigilant this summer after research found more than one in six adults in the UK had been impacted by rogue traders.

The warning comes amid concern that ‘cowboy tradespeople’ may be seeking to take advantage of consumers looking to cut back on the cost of home improvement or maintenance work in the midst of the cost-of-living crisis and stretched household finances.

The research, conducted by Checkatrade, revealed 6.7 million UK adults have been impacted by a rogue trade over the last year.

In response OFTEC, a registration body for off-gas grid heating, is encouraging households in Dorset to do their research before booking a tradesperson and to avoid attempting dangerous DIY repairs to cut costs.

The advice includes asking for credentials, checking that any tradespeople are appropriately registered, and keeping regular maintenance across the house.

North Dorset Police is also warning residents of the dangers of cold callers after an elderly man was targeted by unscrupulous workers.

The elderly man was asked for cash in hand for a gardening job that was ‘likely not worth the value of the work’. Fortunately, police intervened to prevent the financial loss and inform local trading standards.

Police ensured his family and bank were alerted and subsequently returned to the village in order to check up on the individual and issued advice to other residents.

Malcolm Farrow, from OFTEC, said: “As the cost of living increases, many consumers are understandably trying to save money wherever they can. Rogue traders are sadly using this situation to target households with pressure selling and shoddy workmanship.

“Always do your research before letting a tradesperson in your home, and don’t be afraid to ask for their credentials. Whilst it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, if you’re quoted a price significantly lower than all the others it could be a scam that leaves you with an expensive repair bill. It’s important to remember only qualified tradespeople should work on a heating system so don’t be tempted to try to fix the problem yourself.”

“If genuine, a trader will be more than happy to prove their identity and qualification details. For oil households, if you have any concerns about a heating technician, contact OFTEC directly for advice and support.”