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Residents of Christchurch and Poole are being warned about rogue traders pressuring people to undertake unnecessary or overpriced drain cleaning services. These individuals often use high-pressure tactics to exploit vulnerable homeowners, including the elderly. Protect yourself and your community by staying vigilant. The traders typically arrive unannounced, claiming they've been working in the area and have noticed problems with the local drains. What to Watch Out For Scare Tactics: Claims of urgent drainage issues that require immediate action.Excessive Charges: Inflated prices for simple services or unnecessary equipment.Lack of Transparency: Refusal to provide written quotes or proof of credentials.Pushy Behaviour: Insistence on cash payments upfront or coercion to make quick decisions.Offering to drive you to your bank to withdraw cash.How You Can Protect Yourself Verify Credentials: Ensure the trader is reputable and has valid identification.Get Multiple Quotes: Compare prices from trusted companies before agreeing to any work.Avoid Cash Payments: Use traceable payment methods and pay only after satisfactory completion of the job.Know Your Rights: You have a 14-day cooling-off period for contracts signed at home. Lack of this notice is a criminal offense.Spread the Word Help protect your community: Warn friends and family via social media about these scams.Look out for elderly neighbours who may be targeted by rogue traders.Report Suspicious Activity If you suspect rogue traders, report them immediately: Call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline at 0808 223 1133 for advice or to file a complaint.Contact your local Trading Standards office through the "Find My Council" page on the .gov website.By staying alert and sharing this information, we can collectively safeguard Christchurch, Poole, and surrounding areas from rogue traders. | 
