Doorstep safety

Find out how to protect yourself from doorstep crime, including distraction burglary, rogue traders and bogus callers.

Some people try to trick their way into peoples' homes with the intention of stealing money or property. Doorstep crime is preventable by following a few simple steps whenever you are in your home. There is a new website for the Greater Manchester area aimed at tackling doorstep crime such as distraction burglary, bogus officials and rogue traders. The new Knock Knock website gives advice and has a range of features including an interactive quiz, videos and information to download.

Visit the Knock Knock website

This advice is not intended to make people feel worried about every caller who may come to your door - it is just a few practical steps that everyone can take to ensure that only the people you are certain you want in your home are allowed in.

Bogus Callers

These are people who trick their way into peoples' homes with the intention of stealing money or property. They often work in teams of two or more and prey on people who are older or vulnerable. Bogus callers can pretend to be anyone to gain entry to your home - Council officials, someone from the gas or water board, or even the police. Most official companies will send you a letter first and you can ask your gas, water or electricity supplier to give you a unique password for additional security. If you are in any doubt about the person on your doorstep then remember the following advice:

Always

• Use your door-chain or door-bar when answering the door and install a door viewer and an outside light.
• If you are over 50, Age Concern may be able to help with the cost of fitting security devices to your door.
• Ask to see the caller's identity card and check it thoroughly. If you feel unsure ask the caller to wait on the doorstep while you phone the company to check.
• Lock the door whilst you go and phone and don't open the door until you are totally convinced. Anyone who is genuine will not mind you doing this.
• Ask them to return at an agreed day and time when you have someone with you. Don't let callers put pressure on you to let them in.
• If in doubt - keep them out.
• If you are suspicious - ring the Police .

Bogus Workmen

Bogus workmen may try to carry out unnecessary repairs on your home and can be quite persistent and convincing. If a workman says you need repairs, tell them you will get some quotes for the work from other companies before deciding. Always use a reputable company to carry out repairs or work on your property and never pay upfront. Don't do business on the doorstep.

If you think you have had dealings with a bogus trader, contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 for information about your legal rights and advice on how to resolve your complaint. Consumer Direct works with Stockport Trading Standards to pass on details of doorstep selling complaints and to deal with the complaints. The law gives you the right to cancel a contract for goods and services where it is entered into in the home. If the trader has not given you this right, the contract is unenforceable and the trader has committed a criminal offence so report your complaint to Consumer Direct. 

What if I am worried?

If you do not feel confident about answering the door to strangers then contact your local police crime reduction advisor on 0161 856 9646 or ring 0161 856 9827 for advice on fitting security devices such as spy-holes etc.