Cornwall Residents Targeted by Rogue Roofers in £20,000 Scam Attempt

Elderly homeowner quoted for repairs that weren’t needed

Cornwall Council’s Trading Standards team is urging people across the Duchy to be on alert following a rise in dodgy roofing scams targeting residents—especially in mid and west Cornwall.

Flyers, False Claims and Inflated Quotes

In recent weeks, multiple complaints have landed with the council, all relating to tradespeople operating in areas such as St Austell, Newquay, and Hayle. The typical pattern involves flyers advertising roofing and home improvement services, leading homeowners to make contact. Once at the property, the traders claim to find serious faults and give shockingly high quotes for unnecessary work.

In one alarming case, an elderly resident simply wanted their roof cleaned. After inspecting the property, the tradespeople claimed the membrane was damaged and quoted £20,000 for repairs. The roof, however, was in excellent condition with no known issues.

Trading Standards Warns: “Stay Vigilant”

Gary Webster, Trading Standards Group Leader, confirmed officers have been out responding to concerns in several towns over the past two weeks.

“This is the time of year when many homeowners will be looking to freshen up their home or make repairs, with roofing a particular focus whilst there is dry weather. We’re asking people to stay vigilant and do their research before agreeing to any work being carried out.”

Gary said the team is especially concerned for vulnerable customers who might be pressured into agreeing to repairs before their legal 14-day cooling off period expires.

“Unfortunately, we have seen a sharp spike in complaints, which we are now investigating. There appears to be a network of connected businesses and individuals, sub-contracting work between themselves and leaving the homeowner unclear as to who they are actually dealing with.”

How to Protect Yourself

Trading Standards have issued some clear advice for anyone considering roofing work:

• Never agree to work from a cold call or unsolicited flyer. Do your own research into local tradespeople.

• Ask friends and family for recommendations, but still check them out yourself.

• Use a business that is part of a legitimate approval scheme like Buy With Confidence.

• Get multiple quotes and insist on a written agreement before work starts.

• Be cautious of trader approval sites and online platforms that may not properly vet businesses.

• Don’t be rushed—genuine businesses won’t pressure you to start immediately.

• If a roofer suddenly “discovers” major issues, always seek a second opinion.

• Websites, brochures and branded vans can be misleading. They don’t prove legitimacy.

• If in doubt, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Residents are being reminded that taking a moment to verify a business now could save thousands of pounds and a lot of stress later.

For further consumer protection advice or to report suspicious traders, visit Buy With Confidence or call Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.