HOUSEHOLDS are urged to beware of cold calling bogus builders claiming to be from an organisation which has previously carried out work on their property.

The warning from Bromley Council’s trading standards team comes following a series of complaints from residents who have been approached.

In two cases a considerable amount of money was handed over to the men with little or no work carried out.

Trading standards believe the incidents are linked and that a gang is targeting elderly householders across the borough.

Head of trading standards Rob Vale said: “Everyone should be on their guard but older residents in particular are being targeted.

“It is appalling that elderly residents are being targeted in this underhand manner.

“Our advice is simple – do not be taken in – however persuasive the caller.”

Anyone who has recently been approached at their door for property repairs is asked to contact trading standards immediately on 07903 852090.