Rogue Trader Fake Solicitor Letter – Regional Update

We are issuing an important warning after a recent doorstep crime incident in Worcestershire. Trading Standards has received a report about a rogue trader who carried out poor-quality driveway work at a resident’s home. Sadly, this type of doorstep crime is something we see all too often. The trader then contacted the victim again, pretending to be a Solicitor.

The victim received a letter that looked official and appeared to be from a legal firm. The letter demanded more money. When the details were checked, the legal firm named on the letter did not seem to exist. This suggests the trader created a fake letterhead to frighten the resident into paying. This is a serious development and shows the lengths some rogue traders are willing to go to in order to pressure and deceive people.

Using fake documents is a tactic designed to make people panic. Letters that look like they come from a Solicitor or another professional can be very intimidating, especially if they threaten further action. Many people are unsure of their rights, and scammers take advantage of this by hoping the person will pay quickly just to make the situation go away. This is particularly worrying for vulnerable or elderly residents, who may already feel anxious about dealing with disputes.

We want to raise awareness of this emerging scam so that others do not fall victim to the same behaviour. Please help us by sharing this information with neighbours, family members, community groups, and anyone who may benefit from knowing about this type of scam. The more people who understand these tactics, the harder it becomes for rogue traders to succeed.

If you are ever in a dispute with a trader about work carried out, unexpected charges, or demands for payment, you do not have to handle the situation on your own. Free and advice is available from the national Citizens Advice consumer helpline. You can call them on 0808 223 1133.