Watchdog featured an interview with the son of the 87-year-old after Trading Standards put him in touch with the programme. He discovered his father had paid more than £8,000 to European Environmental Controls Ltd for unnecessary security equipment. This included a video door entry system which he didn’t know how to use.
A security expert told Watchdog that a perfectly adequate alarm system for the resident’s needs should have cost only around £1,000 with £200 labour charges.
"This is a very unfortunate incident but one that Trading Standards often warns about,” said Councillor Bob Tidy, Lead Cabinet Member for Community Safety. "Nobody should be rushed into buying anything on the doorstep or on the phone.
"The new Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme will help to prevent residents across the County falling prey to conmen and rogue traders by having an approved list of local traders who have shown that they trade fairly, honestly and offer their customers good levels of service.”
Residents can find a Buy With Confidence Approved Trader through our website or by calling the Buy With Confidence Team on 01323 418201/215.
Reference:
04/367/JW
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