Cowboy roofer jailed for more than 3 years

Repair man sentenced to three years for shoddy workmanship

Cowboy roofer Richard Michael Todd was sentenced to 3 years 2 months yesterday at Bristol Crown Court for emergency roof repairs carried out in just 3 months between November 2022 and January 2023. Todd took £41,690 from 12 customers leaving behind a wake of poor quality and over priced work. Prosecution was brought forward by Trading Standards Bath and Northeast Somerset Council.

Todd took one upfront payment and did not turn up to complete the work. In several other cases customers were left battling the same leaks after he left.

Todd pleaded guilty to carrying on a business for a fraudulent purpose, contrary to the Fraud Act 2006. In amongst his charges were failing to pay VAT, vvercharging for the work completed, falsely claiming guarantees, failing to carry out work for which he had been paid.

Councillor Manda Rigby commented "Let this be a warning to scammers that they might think they can take people for a ride, but the council won't stand by while innocent residents are exploited."

Trading Standards teams recommend that before you agree to work you should:

• Never pay up front and never pay cash.

• Say no to doorstep sellers.

• Always get a detailed written quotation/contract.

• Read reviews of traders and if possible use the Buy with Confidence Approved Trader Scheme.

• Ask at least three approved traders for quotes.

• Check the builder’s references and even pay visits to the references.

• Ask your neighbours, family or friends for personal recommendations of builders who have worked for them and carried out a good job.