Leaves are down and gutters are full, so the "we're doing a job down the road, can do yours today" knock is back. Some callers are genuine. Plenty aren't. Here's how to tell, and what to do if you've already said yes.
Step 1: Don't open the door wide
If you're not expecting anyone, look first. A door viewer or chain lets you talk without inviting anyone in. I covered fitting a door chain or door viewer yesterday, and it's a short job to add to a booked session.
Step 2: Listen for the red flags
- "Today only, while we've got the gear here." Pressure to decide now.
- "I spotted a problem from the road." Get someone you chose to check it.
- "Cash price if we start now." No paperwork, no comeback.
- "You don't need anything in writing." You do: a business name, a full address and a clear description of the work.
- "Let's pop to the cashpoint." Close the door.
Step 3: Know your 14-day right to cancel
According to Citizens Advice, if you agree work away from the trader's premises, including on your doorstep, you usually get a 14-day cooling-off period. The trader should give you the details of how to cancel. If they don't, the cooling-off period can be extended.
There are exceptions, for example urgent repairs you asked for, and if you asked them to start during the 14 days you may have to pay for work already done. Check the Citizens Advice page for your situation. Their cancelling a service page has template letters. Keep a copy of what you send.
Step 4: Report anything that feels wrong
- Pushy or misleading traders: report to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice.
- Scams and fraud: Action Fraud.
- If someone won't leave or you feel unsafe, call 999.
It's also worth a word with older neighbours or relatives who live alone.
How a Handyman Plus Van booking works
You book the session, in 3-hour slots in Swindon or full days covering about 30 minutes around Swindon. You give me a job list, I work through it in your order and do my best to get the list done in the time booked. Small bits from my van stock aren't charged, and bigger items go on the invoice at cost. I'm insured, DBS checked and rated 4.9 on Google.
My own limits: no ladder work above 5 metres, and roofing is flat roofs only, rubber (EPDM) or fibreglass only, no torch-on felt. High gutters need a specialist you picked yourself.
More on this: doorstep roofers after a storm, and my blog post on doorstep gutter and driveway offers.
Book a session or message me on WhatsApp on 07729 689420.
