Prevent doorstep crime

Advice to identify a bogus caller at your door and to take the right steps to ensure you and your property stay safe.

‘Distraction burglars’ and fraudsters will not go to the trouble of breaking in if they can just knock and be invited in. They target vulnerable, often elderly people in their homes.

Sometimes they pose as officials from utility companies or other organisations, or they make up stories to get into your home and steal from you.

These criminals can be men, women or even children. Their appearance can be smart or casual, and they may even wear a tabard and carry fake identification.

Tips to spot a bogus caller

Genuine callers will normally make an appointment first and will carry identification with their photograph on it. Always ask to see their ID.

Bogus dealers

Bogus ‘dealers’ may offer to buy your antiques, furniture or jewellery at what seems to be a good price.

Chances are they are trying to trick you into selling something for a lot less than it is worth.

Door-to-door collectors

People collecting money for charity may call at your door. The Charity Commission outlines that collectors should:

have a valid local authority or police licence
wear an ID badge – be wary of any ID that looks altered, photocopied or homemade
have a sealed collection container with the charity’s registration number and name on it – this should match the details on the caller’s ID badge
be able to prove they have the charity’s permission to fundraise

Remember, if you do not feel sure about the collector, say no and close the door. You can make a donation directly to the charity or to a different charity of your choice

Concerns about collectors

If you have any concerns about a charity collector, call the Charity Commission Helpline on 0300 066 9197.

Pedlars

A pedlar is someone who travels and trades on foot, going from town-to-town or house-to-house selling goods or offering their skills in handicrafts.

If a pedlar comes to your door, ask to see their Pedlar’s Certificate. Here are examples of a pedlar’s certificate (PDF) and a pedlar’s certificate with no photo (PDF).

Someone who acts as a pedlar without a certificate is committing an offence. If they cannot produce a certificate when you ask, report them to the police.

Rogue traders

Bogus ‘workmen’ and so-called ‘rogue traders’ may say they need to come in to make urgent repairs. In reality, they really want to steal from your house.

Be careful of callers who offer to make building repairs or tarmac your drive. They may ask for money in advance, or even offer to drive you to the bank to withdraw money to pay them.

Know your rights

Traders must give you ‘Notice of Right to Cancel, which gives you a 14-day cooling off period before work starts, for any work over the value of £35.

Immediate danger

If an unexpected caller makes you feel alarmed or intimidated, call 999 immediately.

What can you do?

If you are not sure who is at your door, do not open it or let anyone into your home.
Always put the chain on before you open the door. Do not keep the chain on all the time, as this could delay your exit in the case of fire.
Check the identity of the caller by calling the company they claim to be from. Use the number provided on an official website, in a phone book or on a utility bill. Do not use any phone number provided by the caller – this may be bogus.
Genuine callers will not mind making an appointment for a date when a family member, friend or trusted neighbour can be there to support you. This will give you time to check their identity, too. Remember: if the caller refuses to give details or does not show what you believe is a genuine ID card, do not let them in and call the police straight away on 999.
Many service providers provide password schemes and it can be helpful to sign up to these. When unannounced callers knock at your door they should know the password if they are genuine.
Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times.
If somebody asks for your help, needs to make a phone call, claims to have lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper, do not invite them into your home. If you really want to offer help, make them wait outside and while you are away from your door, close and lock it. Remember: it is your doorstep, your decision.
Never use companies that make unsolicited calls, do not provide written contracts or offer to do work for cash.
Where possible, have a safety chain, intercom or video doorbell and viewer fitted and always attach the chain or use the intercom or viewer before opening the door to strangers.
You can check whether traders are members of the government’s Trust Mark scheme or the Buy with confidence scheme.

Parcel theft

If your parcel is stolen, immediately contact the seller or retailer to request a refund or replacement, as they are legally responsible for delivery until it is in your hands.

Report the theft to the police – via our

– to get a crime reference number, and check with neighbours or for CCTV footage.

Further support

Age UK website – a federation of independent organisations that support older people offering advice and support services to help them feel safe
Trading Standards