How to deal with doorstep scams

Last Updated: April 29, 2026 This post was written by Clive Price

We’re working around the corner and noticed a loose tile on your roof. We’re in your area, and it’s a special price for today. I’ve just done a job for your neighbour. We’ve got material leftover from another job.

How often have you heard such statements? Sometimes it’s hard to tell if the salesperson is genuine or not. They stand on your doorstep with a convincing story.

You can stop their storytelling in its tracks

But you can stop their storytelling in its tracks and block their attempts to take your money.

Report Fraud say doorstep scams occur when a cold-caller offers you a service you don’t need. The usual narrative is, they’ve noticed an issue with your property. They might say there are loose tiles on your roof – and they can fix them.

An easy response is that you have someone who looks after your roof. It’s one of MMHS’s duties and responsibilities as your landlord.

Neighbourhood Watch point out scammers will often say the work is urgent and need immediate payment – even offering to go to the bank with you. The price will increase for the work, if the work ever gets done or even started.

Another easy response is that MMHS would require quotes before any serious work is done. So do not part with cash, before MMHS have approved any works.

There are also ‘distraction burglars’ who work in pairs. One of them will keep you at the front door. Their partner will gain entry to your home from the side or the back of the property.

  • Trading Standards recommend turning away all uninvited salespeople. Don’t entertain them. It can all end on the doorstep;
  • Neighbourhood Watch say only use tradespeople recommended by those you trust. Use a good trader scheme or local council ‘approved tradespeople’ list;
  • even if expecting a tradesperson, still ask for identification. Phone their company to check (obtain the number from the web, not from the caller);
  • keep front and back doors locked, even when at home;
  • install a ‘spy hole’ or electronic viewer in your front door;
  • safest step is not to answer the door to anyone you’re not expecting.

It’s not rude to ask them to leave

If a caller says they’re from MMHS, phone us to check. If you are not convinced by a caller’s story, it’s not rude to ask them to leave.

For further peace of mind, request a free home security visit by calling 101 and asking for your local crime prevention officer – or visit the police.uk website. If you want to modify your front or back door, or install a video doorbell, contact MMHS on 020 3848 6020 for guidance.