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Storm Damage Repairs Stoke

The warning follows a number of reports from households who have found tradespeople "touting for business" in areas where properties were affected by the storm.
A C Chesters & Son
01538 750006
82-84 High Street
Stoke On Trent
A & L Burgess
01782 302726
27 Johnstone Avenue
Stoke On Trent
T Brookfield & Sons Ltd
01782 313652
38-50 Trentham Road
Stoke On Trent
R D Cresswell Ltd
01782 313488
Baths Road
Stoke On Trent
Biddles Stores
01782 534435
58 Baddeley Green Lane
Stoke On Trent
Kitt T C Home Improvements
01538 723171
12 Heath House Lane
Stoke On Trent
Wilkinson Hardware Stores Ltd
01782 593327
Unit 1 Kingcross Street
Stoke On Trent
Nik Naks
01782 284991
223 Dawlish Drive
Stoke On Trent
Ktf Home Improvements Ltd
01782 330724
Unit 6 Willow Row
Stoke On Trent
Focus
0844 8001357
Barnfield Road
Leek
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Storm Damage Repairs

Homeowners are recommended to use Trustmark accredited tradespeople or those recommended by friends and relatives

Households that suffered damage to their homes following last week's storm are being warned to watch out for rogue tradesmen, the government announced today.

The warning follows a number of reports from households who have found tradespeople "touting for business" in areas where properties were affected by the storm.

"If you have suffered storm damage to your house or garden, you might be tempted to accept the first offer that comes along, but this doesn't always guarantee that you'll be pleased with the result," commented Carol Brady, operations manager for Consumer Direct, the government's advice service.

"We are advising people to contact their insurance company in the first instance, and follow some simple steps to reduce the risk of being ripped off."

Tips for organising repairs to a damaged property

  • Before organising any repairs, contact your insurance company.

    Consumer Direct advised: "Some insurance companies may arrange approved traders to repair damage on your behalf, but if you organise your own repairs, check what will be covered."

  • As well as getting recommendations for tradespeople from family, friends and neighbours, homeowners can also look for a Trustmark-registered firm ( www.trustmark.org.uk )

    Additionally, Consumer Direct advises people to be "very cautious" if they employ a tradesperson who makes an unsolicited visit.

  • Get three written quotes (not estimates) from at least three traders.

  • If you can, make staged payments, ideally keeping back a most of the payment until the repair job has been completed and you are happy with it. That way any defects can be put right without the need to make a claim or go to court for compensation.

  • Paying for goods or services over £100 by credit card will offer extra protection, as the credit card company may be able to claim your money back on your behalf if the trader fails to honour the contract, as well as compensating you.

    For more advice on household goods and property repairs see www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

    • Click here to read more from aboutproperty.co.uk