01/06/2026
Sharing alert from Gloucestershire Police
We are have been made aware of an incident of a male attending an elderly person's address in Rodborough and allegedly completing some work on roof tiles and demanding £1400 for the work completed. The male has become aggressive when challenged by a family member regarding the work completed that was not necessary and on this occasion no money has been exchanged. The male was driving a Red Transit van.
Typically a rogue trader will call at the door uninvited offering to carry out work that is poor quality, unfinished & often unnecessary. Or offering items for sale that are of poor quality and over inflated prices.
Often referred to as “Nottingham Knockers ”. These individuals typically claim to be part of a rehabilitation scheme, in many cases they are not legitimate and visits can be used to identify vulnerable homes for potential crime.
Rogue traders/door to door sellers are often opportunist, unscrupulous and often very convincing. Rogue traders often quote low prices but then demand more money and very often the work they claim needs doing is completely unnecessary.
They often target elderly and vulnerable members of our community. Some will not take no for an answer and insist on a contract being signed.
Rogue traders will often demand cash or money upfront. We have also be made aware of one rogue trader attending with a portable card machine insisting on payment being taken.
Often door to door sellers will try to pressure you to buy items or donate money visiting late in the afternoon or early evening.
Action Fraud advises following these steps to protect yourself from rogue traders:
· Always ask for ID before letting anyone into your home.
· Check credentials, including permanent business address and telephone number.
· Ask questions, ask for references and ask for examples of work.
· Don't sign on the spot - shop around. Get at least three written quotes to make sure you're not being ripped off.
· If in any doubt, ask the person to leave.
The simplest way to reduce the risk is not to engage with any doorstep sellers. Politely ask them to leave.
If you have been a victim of a rogue trader please report to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice- 0808 223 1133
If someone makes you feel unsafe or pressured call 101 to report the incident.
If you feel threatened or a crime is taking place always call 999.
Please help us raise awareness of this scam by informing your elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.
For advice on keeping your YOURSELF/PROPERTY/CAR safe, you can find plenty of crime prevention advice on our website: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/
