Police and Trading Standards have issued a warning to stay vigilant for doorstep rogue traders in Cornwall.

As spring approaches and weather conditions begin to improve, residents are being advised to be particularly cautious about unsolicited tradespeople.

These groups of people are known to knock people's doors, offering home and garden maintenance services.

Rogue traders typically use manipulative methods, providing substandard services, using deceptive approaches, and charging extortionate prices.

These so-called traders can be extremely persuasive and often take advantage of unsuspecting individuals.

To protect themselves, residents are advised not to agree to any work offered by unsolicited callers.

They should not rely solely on social media recommendations and, above all, not feel pressured to decide quickly or pay cash upfront before any work is carried out.

Falmouth Packet: Any concerns or information about rogue traders should promptly be reported to Trading Standards or

Practices to adopt include obtaining three written quotes from reputable businesses for any intended jobs around the home.

In addition, researching the company thoroughly, for instance, asking for references and doing online checks is strongly advised.

Recommendations from trusted friends and family, or registered platforms such as Buy With Confidence, can also prove beneficial.

Reputable tradespeople would usually have no qualms about showing their professional qualifications, public liability insurance and waste carriers licence when asked.

Residents should also ensure that they have full contact details for any tradesperson, and not merely a mobile phone number.

In addition to these suggestions, it is also important to remember that certain contracts have a 14-day cooling-off period and residents are entitled to this if applicable.

The basic rule of thumb though, is if an unexpected person knocks at the door, and the resident has any concerns, it is better not to open the door and avoid potential confrontation.

If residents have reason to believe someone is at risk or rogue traders are operating in their area, they should contact the police immediately.

In case a company claims to work with a local council, residents should confirm with the council directly.

Any concerns or information about rogue traders should promptly be reported to Trading Standards or the police by phoning 101, with details of descriptions and vehicle registrations if available.

If an immediate crime is taking place, residents should dial 999 without hesitation.