Roof Repair Scam Costs Pensioner £37,000 ¦ How to ensure it doesn't happen to you.
A Lancashire pensioner was left thousands of pounds out of pocket after falling victim to ruthless doorstep scammers.
The fraud began when two men knocked on his door, claiming his roof urgently needed repairs. They handed over a leaflet for a so-called business called “Roofing Repair Specialists” and gave an initial verbal quote of £12,000.
But as the job went on, the men kept insisting more work and materials were required. Over time, the costs spiraled – eventually draining a shocking £37,000 from the victim.
Fortunately, the victim’s bank spotted unusual withdrawals and alerted the police. Officers arrested the two men, who have since been jailed. Sadly, the pensioner still had to pay a further £15,000 to have his roof properly replaced.
To help keep yourself and your family safe from doorstep scams, here are some simple tips:
Put up a “No Cold Calling” sticker: It helps stop unwanted visitors, so you know that anyone who still knocks is best avoided.
Keep your door locked: Use a chain or spy hole to see who’s there before opening up.
Don’t open the door to strangers: If you’re not expecting someone, it’s okay not to answer. Genuine visitors will get in touch another way.
Be polite but firm: If you do answer, a quick “No, thank you” is enough—then just close the door.
If you do need a tradesman, use the Safe Trader Scheme , which is a trusted service that helps people find reliable, vetted tradespeople for property repairs, home improvements, gardening, mobility aids, and other household needs. Go to https://safetrader.org.uk/ for more details.
If you, have problems with sales people, call Citizens Advice Lancashire West on 0808 278 7880 or check out your rights at the Citizen’s Advice website for Consumers
References:
Lancashire Police : https://news.lancashire.police.uk/news/2025/september/men-jailed-for-charging-37-000-for-shoddy-roof-repairs-at-crawshawbooth-house/
Daily Mirror article: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/rogue-builders-37k-scam-exposed-35853440