Warning over flood damage repair scams

The warning comes as 17 flood alerts are currently in place for the county

A council has warned residents to be cautious of cold callers offering to repair damage caused by recent floods.

Oxfordshire County Council said that rogue traders would see the impact of the heavy rain over the past few weeks as "as the perfect opportunity" to scam people.

The warning comes as 17 flood alerts are in place for the county.

Jody Kerman, the council's head of trading standards, advised people not to give into "pressurised situations" and give themselves time to "think clearly".

Mr Kerman said the "the perfect storm" had been created to" take advantage of the anxiety people may feel" about existing or potential damage to their property.

"It gives rogue traders a good way in to say 'this work needs doing - I'm available now'," he said in an interview with BBC Radio Oxford.

"It's very [similar] to other types of scams where you are under pressure and not making great decisions."

The council said with many reputable traders being booked up, the advice was to be wary of contractors who push for a quick agreement.

It added that rogue traders "may quote low prices but will soon demand more money" and would do "completely unnecessary" work.

"Our overriding message is 'if it’s out of the blue, it’s not for you'," Mr Kerman said.

He added that people could find "local traders who have been vetted and approved by trading standards" via the Buy with Confidence scheme.

Other tips the local authority issued included to first check whether their insurance policy includes emergency assistance support and to get quotes from reputable traders.

Residents who are concerned they have been scammed or need advice on consumer rights are advised to contact the Citizens Advice National Consumer Service.