People in Dumfries and Galloway are being warned to be aware of rogue traders in the wake of Storm Eowyn.
Friday’s storm – the strongest to hit the region for a decade – resulted in damage to buildings and trees falling.
And police fear that has created the perfect environment for scammers to target vulnerable people.
A spokesman said: “With Storm Eowyn now passed, we are aware that it left behind significant damage to properties. You may have been busy trying to get someone to come and repair or make safe the damage caused to your property.
“We are aware of rogue traders who have been operating throughout the region offering to carry out work, then carrying it out to a very poor standard and demanding more money than originally quoted. Rogue traders will knock on your door or drop a leaflet through the door.
“It can be tempting to use these people as you are concerned that further damage may be caused to your property if the repair is not done immediately.
“Doorstep crime is a problem that continues to plague our communities’ year on year. These incidents can have a devastating and lasting effect on victims from disruption to their homes, or property and financial loss that impacts heavily on their emotional wellbeing and health.”
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Police have offered advice on how to sport a rogue trader, who will often offer to carry out roofing, gardening and driveway work.
They will often offer to do small jobs more cheaply than competitors – then begin work and falsely claim more work is needed.
The scammers will offer a discount if paid in cash immediately and highlight local work they have done – but they have been known to complete one piece of work before scamming other customers.
Local telephone numbers can be misleading as they can be bought and they may also have a business card, website and branded van.
Police advise people to ask for ID, check the business exists, ask for proof of qualifications, consult the Trusted Trader Scheme and obtain three quotes for maintenance work.
Don’t be pressured into making a decision and don’t allow a trader to start work straight away.
And you can request a No Cold Calling sticker from Trading Standards.
To report any suspicious activity, call 101 – or call 999 and ask for the police if you feel scared or threatened.