RESIDENTS have been urged not to employ cold callers for work following bad weather.

The warning came from Flintshire Trading Standards following the recent windy conditions.

A spokesman explained: "[We] would like to remind residents that due to the bad weather, it may be likely that traders will start cold calling offering to repair damage to property that might have occurred due to the rain and flooding, such as fallen trees and guttering. 

"The traders might say they can do the job immediately and for a cash amount.

"Flintshire Trading Standards would like to advise residents to avoid employing cold callers to carry out such important work. 

"The work may not be of good quality and may cause more damage.

"If you notice damage to your property caused by adverse weather, it is advised to use your house insurance or use a reputable trader.

"Additionally if a trader attempts to sell items or services in a consumer’s home then The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 apply. 

"These regulations apply to contracts which are made during both solicited and unsolicited visits to a consumer’s home. 

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"A 14-day cancellation notice must be given if the contract to buy goods or services is for £42 or more. Failure to do so is a criminal offence. 

"Flintshire trading standards offer no cold calling sticker which you should place in a prominent position on your window or door, these act as a deterrent to cold callers. 

"If traders ignore it they could be considered to be committing a criminal offence. 

"If you would like to request some stickers for you and/or your family, friends or neighbours, please contact Flintshire trading standards on 01352 703181.

"Please report any incidents to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133."