A campaign warning older residents about the dangers of rogue traders and doorstep criminals has been launched by the Council’s Trading Standards team.
With the easing of Covid-19 restrictions and permission granted for non-essential work to recommence, Trading Standards officers have warned this presents a golden opportunity for unscrupulous doorstep criminals to target households in the area.
Rogue traders offer services typically carried out to a poor standard at over-inflated prices, and may use intimidation, pressure or threats to get payment or consent to carry out work. The works carried out have often been unnecessary, of poor quality and evidence shows it is not uncommon for them to take money upfront and never return to carry out the work.
These criminals will often start with a relatively small priced job but the situation can quickly escalate to larger much more expensive works.
Posters and leaflets will be distributed in the area warning retired residents to be on their guard from rogue traders who may see them and their home as a prime target. The message will also be highlighted on the Council's social media channels.
Trading Standards officers hope the campaign will help to educate communities on how they can protect themselves.
Joint Council leader Andrew Polson said, "We take doorstep crime very seriously in East Dunbartonshire and I would urge everyone to be wary about people who call at houses offering to do roofing, gardening or other work.
"Although you may feel awkward, never be afraid to close the door on doorstep callers.
If you're in any doubt then contact the police by calling 101.
"If you have been scammed or think that someone is trying or has tried to scam you then get advice and report it to Trading Standards on 03001234510."
Joint Council leader Vaughan Moody added, "When it comes to doorstep crime, some people will do anything to part you from your cash.
"These criminals can be very plausible and persuasive and it can be easy to be taken in by them.
"We know that doorstep crime can have a devastating and lasting effect on victims from damage to home and property and financial loss that impacts heavily on their health and emotional wellbeing.
"Unfortunately it's the more vulnerable in our society who continue to be the main target for these fraudsters and I would urge people to look out for their elderly or otherwise vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours."
The website approvedtrader.scot [opens in a new window] is an easy way to find a trader who has been approved by trading standards. The website draws together Scottish traders who are members of the Trusted Trader or Buy with Confidence schemes and is managed by the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland.
Residents can also register for East Dunbartonshire Community Alerts. This allows people to keep up to date by email with the latest news - including reports of doorstep crime, scams, burglaries and more in East Dunbartonshire.
To sign up for East Dunbartonshire Community Alerts, complete the online form by visiting Neighbourhood Watch Scotland [opens in a new window]
If need support or advice, please call Trading Standards on 0300 123 4510, and they will assist you in registering.