RESIDENTS are being warned to watch out for despicable rogue traders who are removing roof tiles themselves before offering to fix them for inflated prices.

Colchester’s Neighbourhood Watch scheme has issued advice after it was reported the ruthless roofing firms were operating in the Prettygate area using the underhand tactics.

The scam involves people linked to the traders intentionally loosening or removing roof tiles in the middle of the night before returning in the morning or a few days later to offer their services to fix the issue.

While the initial price quoted can seem reasonable, the cowboys are then liable to insist much more work needs to be done including a complete roof replacement or a whole new fascia.

The costs can then run into thousands of pounds.

Although the fraudsters are thought to have operating in Prettygate, it is believed the con could be being perpetrated countywide.

Sue Lissimore (Con) who represents the Prettygate ward on both Colchester and Essex councils, urged people to look out for neighbours and never to buy directly from people selling on the doorstep.

She said: “Trading Standards keep a list of people who are operating as rogue traders so it is important to contact them if there are any problems.

“But it is also crucial we all look after our neighbours and family members who are potentially vulnerable.

“I would suggest if anybody sees a workman on their neighbour’s roof and they haven’t mentioned anything about any maintenance to ask them how it came about and make sure they have the right paperwork.

“It is so important to look out for each other.”

Anyone looking for tradesman to carry out work on their homes should obtain quotes from firms listed at buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

It is recommended at least three contractors are contacted before commencing any major household works.

Potential rogue traders can be reported by calling trading standards on 03454 040506.