Callers at the door

The Golden Rule is that you should never let anyone into the property unless you are sure that they are genuine. Fit a door chain and put it on the door before opening it. Fit a spyhole or look through the front window before answering calls.

Bogus Officials
Don't be fooled by a uniform. Anyone claiming to represent a statutory agency (gas board, water board etc.) will always carry identification Ask them to produce it. A genuine representative will be pleased to display the I.D. card. If they make an excuse that they have forgotten it DO NOT LET THEM IN - no matter how plausible their reason for coming into the property.

Do look carefully at the ID card when it is shown to you. If you are in doubt phone the relevant body to check if they have officials in the area. Make sure you close the door on the Official whilst you check.

Bogus Traders
Beware anyone calling on you offering to purchase antiques, jewellery. The person may offer what seems a very good price for an article you show him ( her) at the door. This may be a way to gain your confidence for when they offer you peanuts for other valuable items. If you wish to sell specific items contact a respectable well-established dealer in your area.

Bogus Builders
There are increasing examples of people, often older people, who have received knocks at the door from workmen claiming to be builders.

They will often claim that roof tiles are missing or paths need repairing. They will then either deliberately damage the roof before doing a "patch" job and then demand extortionate payment .

If you do need a repair carried out check with local Citizen's Advice Bureau or Age Concern if they have lists of reputable builders (See details of the Age Concern Home Security Service). Obtain estimates and if you are unhappy and feel threatened phone the Police.

Strangers at the Door
Be wary of a knock at the door when the person asks for a drink or say that they have kicked their ball into the garden. Never let them into the property. and if you do recover the ball remember to close the door and leave them on the doorstep. If genuine they will just be pleased to get their ball back!