Increase in Roofing Scams Reported by Citizens Advice

Scammers posing as legitimate contractors are charging homeowners significant amounts for roofing work that is either incomplete, poorly done, or unnecessary, according to Citizens Advice. The consumer advice charity reported that one in ten of all scams recorded over the past year were related to roofing, making it the most prevalent type of scam they encountered. Victims, such as 68-year-old Crystal from the Midlands, have reported losing thousands of pounds. Crystal stated that after hiring a contractor for £5,500, the work was poorly executed, leading to further damage to her home and her neighbor's property. She expressed distress over the situation, saying it has affected her sleep and eating habits. In the year leading up to August, Citizens Advice received 9,000 complaints about roofing work, with approximately 2,205 of those, or about one in four, suspected to be scams, an increase from 2,098 the previous year. Dame Clare Moriarty, chief executive of Citizens Advice, advised consumers to conduct thorough checks on traders before hiring them, noting that scammers often exploit the fact that roofs are difficult for homeowners to inspect. Victims have also reported aggressive tactics, with three-quarters of fraudsters using door-to-door sales methods. Citizens Advice highlighted the case of 65-year-old Charlotte from northeastern England, who was pressured into paying £3,500 for work that was never completed. To help prevent roofing scams, Citizens Advice recommends that consumers ask for references, gather evidence of any issues, and be aware of their rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Lord Bichard, chair of National Trading Standards, described roofing fraud as particularly cruel, stating that victims can lose their life savings quickly and face long-term emotional and financial repercussions.