Be wary of 'unknown' workmen - warn police

BALLYMENA householders are being advised by police to be wary of handing over money to unknown callers who offer to do work about their homes.

The advice follows reports of workmen calling unannounced at homes or using leaflet drops to offer to provide services such as power-washing, cleaning roofs or gutters or sealing drives.

Constable Dean McAuley, the crime prevention officer at Ballymena police station, said: “Our advice is that if you need work done about your home you should approach local, established trades people or firms. They have a reputation to protect and you will know where to find them if something goes wrong.

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“If you are having a substantial amount of work carried out, it is also preferable to get several written quotes on headed notepaper so that you can establish which is the best value.

“If you know of someone who has had similar work carried out, speak to them to establish if they were happy with it and if they would recommend the workmen. Never pay for work in advance,” he said.

“Do not employ anyone you are unsure of or if you feel you are being put under pressure. If anyone attempts to do work without your permission or refuses to leave your property, contact police”

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