Police Scotland appeal to tackle doorstep crime in Inverness

INVERNESS residents should be aware of bogus workmen, police have warned.

The appeal from Police Scotland comes after a recent incident happened last Friday, when two men called at a house in Kingsmills Road offering to carry out roofing work and, after the householder cancelled the job, called back asking for a sum of money for materials they had ordered for the job.

Acting Inspector Maqsood said people are encouraged to report similar accidents and should not feel ashamed if they feel they havce fallen victims of doorstep crime.

He said: “We would offer the following advice to householders when confronted by cold callers: Do not feel pressurised into agreeing immediate work. Never listen to scare stories and beware of traders who suddenly appear after storms and floods and avoid claims that a low price is only available if you sign up right away.

"Do not agree to buy from the first person who calls. Ask yourself if you really want these goods or services.

"Do not pay cash up front. Never pay for work before it is completed and don't hand over large sums of money.

"Do shop around if you decide you need work done. Get a minimum of three quotes from reputable traders."

He added: "Police Scotland do not recommend dealing with cold callers for property maintenance and repairs to your home, and working together we can ensure that we can drive down the number of reports of doorstep crime we receive each year."

People that feel threatened, unsafe or suspicious of a caller should contact police immediately on 999.

Anyone seeing something suspicious in their area or wanting more advice on doorstep crime can contact police on 101, taking note of descriptions of people and vehicles used where possible.

You can also contact police anonymously through the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.