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The IOM Office of Fair Trading are reiterating to visiting traders that cold calling is illegal on the Island.

 

Under Manx law, it's illegal to cold call either in person or on the phone here.

 

The OFT are asking residents to be vigilant, not to employ traders who make unsolicited visits to their homes offering to do home improvements and to keep a look out on behalf of vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours who may fall victim.  

 

The body said: 'Householders approached by traders operating in this unsolicited way are often persuaded to accept their offer because they initially appear to be cheaper than genuine traders and can begin work straightaway.  They can be very persistent, offering ‘special deals’ and will not readily take no for an answer.'

 

Head of Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading, John Peet offers these tips to avoid being the victim of a rogue trader:

 

Do not deal with traders who call at your house without an appointment offering to do work.

Do not be pressurised into having unnecessary work done. 

Do not fall for patter such as “We’ve got some tarmac left over from a big job”.

Do not part with a significant amount of cash up front.

If a trader is pestering you for work, call Trading Standards on the number below, or the police.

  

Householders concerned that they may have already fallen foul of a rogue trader should contact Trading Standards on 686520.

 

 

 

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