Wiltshire residents have been issued a rogue trader warning after “substandard” work was carried out on rooves around the county.

In recent weeks Wiltshire Police has received multiple “concerning” reports about a business conducting poor-quality work on roofs, gutters, and outdoor spaces.

These incidents took place in the Highworth, Lyneham, Wroughton, and Royal Wootton Bassett areas.

Customers attempted to pay for the jobs, but their payments were turned down by the bank due to “suspected fraudulent activity”, with the traders then requesting cash instead.

Police say they are working with Trading Standards to fully investigate the issue.

PC Joseph Langley, based in Swindon, advised residents to fully verify the person or business they are dealing with before handing over any money.

He said: “We appreciate the concerning nature of these reports – work on your home often amounts to thousands of pounds and you want to be sure it is being spent on a trusted company or person who can be relied upon to do the job well.

“It is very important that before you make a payment or agree to have work done by any company, you should fully verify who they are to ensure they are a reputable business by using websites such as Gov.uk or checkatrade.com.”

READ MORE: Rogue trader rips off customers in Swindon and Royal Wootton Bassett

Anybody who suspects they have been targeted by rogue traders should report it to police or seek advice from the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline.

PC Langley added: “Rogue traders are individuals or companies that engage in deceptive practices, provide substandard services, and often fail to deliver on promises made to customers.

“They often target vulnerable individuals, the elderly, and those who may be less familiar with the home improvement process.

“Rogue services on offer tend to include gardening and landscaping services, roofing work, energy saving products, and home improvements.

“If you wish to raise a concern, complaints or reports can be made to the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline.

“If you think you have been a victim of a crime, please contact us on 101 or via our website.”

A Trading Standards spokesperson said: “Swindon Trading Standards Service advises residents to be very careful about traders who cold call them at their door.

“Reputable traders do not tend to knock on residents’ doors looking for work, so it is best not to engage and to not agree to any work or call backs. 

“Anyone worried about potential problems with their property should take their time and seek a second opinion.”