Someone's Offering to Fix Your Roof — How to Check They're Genuine
Following recent local warnings about rogue traders targeting older residents, this guide covers how to check a tradesperson is genuine before agreeing to any work, and the red flags that tend to separate rogue traders from the real thing.
Software for Seniors
10/10/20262 min read
Why this one's worth knowing
Unlike a phone or online scam, this one arrives at your actual front door — often with a plausible story ("I noticed some loose tiles while working next door"), a van, and a confident manner. Most tradespeople who knock unannounced are perfectly genuine, but it's exactly the kind of in-person pressure that rogue traders rely on, so it's worth having a few checks ready regardless of who's at the door.
The classic warning signs
Claiming work is needed "urgently" — a genuine problem rarely needs same-day action
Pressuring you to decide on the spot, or discouraging you from getting a second opinion
Asking for cash payment upfront, especially a large amount, before any work has started
No fixed business address, or reluctance to provide one
What to do before agreeing to anything
Ask for the company name and ID, then look the company up yourself — a genuine company will have an online presence, reviews, and a landline number, not just a mobile
Check whether they're registered with a recognised trade body, such as TrustMark or a Checkatrade-verified tradesperson — these schemes vet members and give you somewhere to complain if something goes wrong
Ask for a written quote, and take your time reviewing it rather than deciding at the doorstep
If you're at all unsure, call your local council's Trading Standards team — they can advise on rogue trader activity in your area and whether a company has been reported before
It's fine to say no, or to wait
A genuine tradesperson expects a homeowner to want time to think, compare quotes, or check references — that's completely normal and not something to feel awkward about. Pressure to decide quickly is itself one of the clearest signs something isn't right.
If you think you've already been targeted
If you've paid for work that wasn't completed, was done poorly, or you simply feel something wasn't right, contact your bank if payment was involved, and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or your local Trading Standards team. This happens to careful, sensible people — reporting it is the useful next step, not something to feel embarrassed about.
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