RESIDENTS across the Southside have been warned of a roofing scam that has been aimed at elderly people.
Locals in Mount Merrion and Blackrock have revealed how they were targeted by the gang that has been operating in both areas in recent weeks.
They brought the matter to the attention of Cllr Deirdre Donnelly (Ind) and Minister Shane Ross who expressed their shock and anger at the actions of the opportunistic crooks who are targeting the elderly in Dún Laoghaire Rathdown.
“Last week a Mount Merrion resident was targetted and there are reports of similar activity in the Blackrock area,” Cllr Donnelly revealed.
“The scam involves a group of men offering to repair roofs which they claim are damaged. They appear at the door of the victim and offer to repair the damage. They then go to the roof and remove several tiles and claim that essential repairs need to be carried out. They have, however, stripped away the tiles themselves and demand thousands of euro for the repair work.
“They seem to target people who are living on their own,” Cllr Donnelly added. “Most of the victims are elderly. Similar scams have happened in the past in the area.
“This goes beyond the financial hardship suffered by the victims. The psychological trauma afterwards can be a lot worse. It’s really frightening to see the impact this can have on a vulnerable person.
“My advice is not to answer the door unless the home owner knows who it is. I would also advise residents not to avail of any services provided by people cold calling to their doors.”
Cllr Donnelly said she believes that some legislation should be introduced in relation to tradesmen cold calling.
“It would put an end to people who are vulnerable becoming victims of deceit. I visited Yorkshire in England two years ago, and could see how this practice is prevented in the UK. The local authorities, law enforcement and the Office of Fair Trading have worked together to send out a message to cold callers that they are not welcome in the community. I would like to see something similar put in place in this country.”
Minister Shane Ross expressed his anger, adding: “It is appalling that vulnerable people were targeted in this manner.”
He warned the public to be vigilant: “Be suspicious of unsolicited calls by people offering to do work in your home: Always check the credentials before engaging their services or granting them access to your home. Any one reading about this scam should warn their neighbours, especially elderly neighbours or people living alone.”