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News

Warning About Tarmac Gangs

The Borough of Poole is warning residents to be wary of ‘Tarmac Gangs’ that have been spotted in the area. 

As in previous years, gangs are going from door-to-door offering to tarmac drives, claiming that they are working on a project nearby and have some spare tarmac. They also often falsely claim that they are approved of or do work for the council. Council Contractors in Poole are not authorised to carry out private driveway resurfacing work.

The gangs will often rip up driveways or spray damaged areas with paint as soon as a resident appears interested in order to secure the work.  A decision to ‘think about it’ will often result in the work being undertaken by the gangs, without a definitive ‘yes’ from the resident.

Peter Pawlowski, Head of Consumer Protection Services, Borough of Poole, said: “The best way to avoid the risk of unsatisfactory work and overpriced services is to use a reputable and trustworthy company.  Tarmac Gangs’ demands for payment often become threatening and begin almost as soon as the work has started.  Use local, reputable traders, get a few quotes and look for membership of a Trade Association.  Always remember that a genuine company will be more than willing to give you time to make an informed choice - do not feel pressured into having work done which you have not planned.”

The Consumer Protection team has put together some points to consider when hiring traders:

·         Residents should beware of any cheap cash jobs offering left over tarmac, they are often laid without a base and start to crack within months.

·         Don’t say you’ll think about it.  This is often taken as agreement to start and the gang may be entitled to a reasonable fee for any work they have done before you ask them to stop. If they refuse to leave contact the police.

·         If you are going to get someone to do some work for you make sure you know their address so that you can contact them to resolve any faults.

·         Get a written quote detailing the exact specification of the job and price.  Legitimate traders will give a written quote headed with their name and address, advising of your right to a seven day cooling off period.

For more consumer advice or a pre-shopping advice leaflet contact Consumer Protection Services on (01202) 261700.

Andrew Crossen-White, Principal Officer, Consumer Protection Services, Borough of Poole Tel No: 01202 261732