Warning issued over carpet cleaning scam

Devon and Somerset Trading Standards are warning residents today to be aware of unscrupulous traders offering carpet cleaning services, following complaints from concerned consumers.

The traders, some of whom operate nationally, normally make initial contact by telephone, offering to clean carpets for a low or special price, often around £20 per room.

A card then arrives with a date for when the work will be carried out.

However, Trading Standards officers say that this just 'a foot in the door', and once in the house, the trader will say that they have found additional problems such as moth infestation, or suggest a more intensive cleaning at much higher price.

In some cases, these charges have been reported to have risen to as much as £4,000.

Devon and Somerset County Councils, which are responsible for the Trading Standards service, are concerned that the visits put unwanted pressure on householders, who may then agree to work that they do not really want.

Steve Gardiner of Devon and Somerset Trading Standards, says: "Do not be tempted to agree to work offered through an unsolicited telephone call of this nature.

"Reputable traders should not give a price over the phone, without first carrying out an inspection.

"It's always a good idea to get two or three quotes for any work you intend to carry out to your property, including carpet cleaning, to ensure that any price you agree to is fair and reasonable.

"Use local firms with good reputations.  Ask friends and family for recommendations, or use a Buy With Confidence member, which are trades audited by Trading Standards that have agreed to trade fairly and honestly."

To find a local business, visit the Buy With Confidence website www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk, or telephone 01823 357261 for a list of members.

For further pre-shopping advice, or to report a potential rogue trader, please contact the Citizen's Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 04 05 06.