EAST Hampshire District Council has put out a warning to local residents to Òbeware of cold callersÓ after it was forced to spend some £600 of public money on clearing up in the wake of working travellers.
According to environmental health officer Patricia Hughes, Penns Field at Petersfield had to be cleared of tree cuttings, left by travellers employed by people to carry out work on their homes.
ÒThe trend for people to Ôcold callÕ and offer to do work around the home, particularly tree lopping, paving or groundworks appears to be on the increase,Ó said Ms Hughes who warned: ÒWhile some of these people may offer a good service many housholders have experience of being overcharged, receiving shoddy work or being intimidated by cold callers. There have also been occurences of fly tipping by unscrupulous tradespeople.Ó
As a result the district council is advising residents to get quotes from at least two companies before proceeding with any such work.
ÒIf the company is reputable, they should be happy to provide the names of previous customers who can be contacted to confirm the quality of their work - itÕs even better if companies are recommended by friends or neighbours,Ó advised the officer.
The council also recommends residents not to proceed until they are sure the work is necessary and they have a written estimate of the costs.
Another way to have a range of home repairs or groundworks carried out is by using the REACT handyperson scheme, which is run by Drum Enterprises and supported by East Hampshire District Council. This scheme uses professional electricians, plumbers, bricklayers etc who are capable of a wide range of general home repairs - Òanything from a dripping tap to roof repairs!Ó
For further information about REACT contact (01730) 403247.