Warning over rogue traders operating on the Island

OFT had multiple reports of non-residents trying to sell garden furniture

People are being urged to remain alert to traders who are making unsolicited home visits on the Isle of Man.

The Office of Fair Trading says it’s had multiple reports in relation to non-resident traders trying to sell garden furniture from a van.

It says the rogue traders quickly left the Island once authorities caught up with them.

Chair Tim Glover said: “Cold calling is illegal in the Isle of Man and the OFT is reminding householders to be aware of their rights.

“The OFT takes these incidents very seriously and works closely with other agencies to track down and deal with rogue traders.

“We will not hesitate to take firm enforcement action especially in cases where the elderly or vulnerable are targeted.”

The OFT says rogue traders often use ‘hit and run’ tactics by staying on Island for just a few days in the hope of avoiding detection.

People are being advised of the following:

• Do NOT buy goods from traders who call without an appointment
• Do NOT feel pressured into buying goods you don’t need or want
• Ignore claims like "These goods are cheap because we're leaving the Island tonight"
• Never pay large amounts of cash up front

Anyone who believes they may have engaged with a rogue trader is asked to contact the OFT on 686500 or the police on 631212.