Police issue warning about rogue roofers scam snaring victims in Yorkshire

Police have issued a warning about a scam involving rogue roofers in Yorkshire.

West Yorkshire Police described an incident in which an elderly woman, living alone, was targeted by two men who offered to clean her home's guttering before damaging her roof tiles and demanding payment to fix it.

The two suspects then returned the next morning asking for yet more money.

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A spokesman for the force said: "An elderly lady, living alone in Ackton Pontefract, had a visit from two males on Saturday afternoon.

Police have issued a warning about the scamPolice have issued a warning about the scam
Police have issued a warning about the scam

"They asked her if she would like her guttering cleaning for £10 so she agreed. Once up the ladders, the males removed six roof tiles and informed her that her roof was damaged and leaking and said they would need £250 for materials to fix it. The victim went upstairs to get the money and paid them.

"The two suspects returned this morning and asked the victim for a further £100 which was again paid in cash. One of the males asked her to follow him outside and look at the roof and whilst doing this the second male sneaked inside the house.

"On realising what had happened the victim returned indoors and sighted the second male running down the stairs. Both males got into a small white van, stating they were going for more materials, but have never returned. The contact phone number given goes straight to voicemail. Not only have they stolen £360 but they have also left the victim with a damaged roof and feeling very stressed and frightened.

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"They are described as white males and were both wearing black gloves with red grips. Male one - 5ft 7, slim build, grey tracksuit top, short thick black hair, black trainers, blue jeans, approx. 35yrs old . Male two – large build, short light brown hair, black leather jacket, blue jeans, trainers, approx. 45yrs old.

"Please remind elderly relatives/neighbours/friends about this type of scam as, due to the time of year, when people start to think about property maintenance, these bogus workmen may prey on the vulnerable and try to obtain cash, through deception, for roofing work that is not necessary. They can be convincing and persuasive and make you feel intimidated. They provide a poor standard of work for highly inflated costs.

"If you need a tradesman/workman always ask friends/relatives/neighbours for advice and recommendations of trusted people, obtain two or three quotes and do not pay cash upfront before the work has been carried out and completed to an acceptable standard."

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