Cowboy Builder now behind bars for operating a scam which hit Surry, Essex & London

£625,000.00 had been paid for work that was not necessary, poor quality or never completed. In Epson a brother and sister Mr and Mrs Newton were pressured to pay £148,000.00 for work on the external elevations of their home and sadly the worst part is that the work didn't need to be completed.

Trading standards and Essex Police uncovered an organised network which was operated by Lee Cross from Romford at the centre. The network used multiple bank accounts to fraudulently steal funds from victims. Fake companies and false names were used to prevent victims from tracing the builders. Lee cross at the centre of the scam was convicted of fraud and money laundering. He is now behind bars thanks to the efforts of the Surry County Council, Trading Standards and Essex Police.

Why is this relevant as a story today? It helps us understand that reporting these crimes is worthwhile. Brave victims came forward and worked with the police and the local council. Whilst this is a process which takes time, it serves as a deterrent to those considering these types of operations.

Surry County Council Advice which is applicable to all:

Do not engage with unsolicited ad hoc callers who are offering work.

Always get quotes from trusted trades people.

Never pay cash on your doorstep.

Agreeing to work, where you are provided with a contract, is usually protected by a 14 day cooling off period. You do not need to rush into having the work completed before the 14 days, this allows thinking time.

Speak to someone you trust and or contact Citizens Advice.

If you are experiencing this type of scam right now with doorstep trades pressuring you to pay for unnecessary work please contact the Police for your local area by calling 101 & report to Trading Standards.

Source: Surry County Council YouTube page