Think twice before agreeing to ‘cold call’ schemes

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Trading Standards team are encouraging people to think twice before agreeing to any schemes promoted to them over the phone.

Sophisticated selling techniques used by cold callers can lead people in to buying goods or services they don’t want, or need.

And even though some of the services being marketed are perfectly legal, hidden charges can sometimes leave people out of pocket.

One such scheme that Trading Standards has recently been made aware of involves independent companies calling people and claiming they could have a reduction in their water bills, often relating to surface water rebates. However, some are charging a fee to investigate if savings are possible or are allegedly keeping some of the identified savings for themselves.

Dwr Cymru Welsh Water has confirmed that their customers can ring them directly to see if they qualify for any reductions.

Trading Standards Officer Viv Jones said: “It’s easy to be tempted by companies that claim they can save you money, or provide services cheaper than anywhere else, but please consider such approaches very carefully before signing up. If someone offers to save you money on your household bills, it’s worth checking with your supplier first – they will be able to tell you whether it is legitimate, and will most likely help you directly rather than you going through a third party.

“And also please remember – never give your bank details to anyone over the phone.”

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Trading Standards team is working with colleagues in Dyfed Powys Police to help spread the message about cold callers and rogue traders.

Executive Board Member for public protection, Cllr Jim Jones, said: “It’s not just rogue traders we’re concerned about, it’s also legitimate companies that use pressure selling tactics to promote goods or services that people simply do not need. It’s always worth thinking twice, otherwise you could end up out of pocket.”

Need advice? Email TradingStandards@carmarthenshire.gov.uk or call 01267 234567.