Doorstep lenders and rogue traders

A trader that knocks on your door to sell you goods or wants to carry out a service on your premises must give you a notice specifying that you have a cooling-off period.

This means you have 14 days to change your mind and cancel the contract. You do not have to specify a reason for your cancellation.

Exceptions to these rules include:

• work carried out in an emergency (like a leaking tap) can be ‘opted out’ but you must put this in writing 
• where the value is lower than £42

See the full Consumer Contracts Regulations legislation.

Businesses that require further information about contracts made off of trade premises can find out more at the Business Companion.

Advice on finding a reputable business

Doorstep crime

For advice on dealing with uninvited rogue traders or bogus callers to your home, visit the dedicated pages on the Citizens Advice website. 

Report a scam

If you are suspicious or think you’ve been a victim of a scam:

• call the Action Fraud helpline on 0300 123 2040
• visit the Action Fraud website

If you receive an electronic scam, you can forward it to Wirral Council Trading Standards for further investigation.