TRADING Standards chiefs today warned householders about damp proofers conning people into spending hundreds of pounds on home improvements they don't need.

Blackburn with Darwen's Trading Standards department said people should be on the lookout for the unscrupulous crooks who are persuading people into installing damp-proof treatment described as "potentially worthless."

An investigation is under way after they received a number of complaints from people who had been targeted.

The bogus damp-proofers operate by making unsolicited phone calls, saying they are carrying out damp surveys in the area, with an assurance that they are not selling anything.

They ask if they can survey the person's house for free.

When damp is identified -- although Trading Standard officers have said in some cases there has been no damp present -- they tell homeowners about the serious effects of not having it treated and quote a price for the work. Once the treatment has been carried out, the householder is committed to paying.

Chris Allen, head of Trading Standards and Advice Services, said: "This is a typical example of the doorstep-seller scam.

"Anyone operating like this must give you notice that you can cancel the contract within seven days.

"I cannot repeat often enough that you should not be persuaded by promises of massive discounts to sign on the dotted line.

"Always get more than one quote when you are contemplating having major work done, and check out the reputation of the firm. You may find that a local firm can do the job cheaper and if you have any problems later you know where to find them.

"You may find out that you didn't even need the work doing in the first place."

If you have been contacted in this way and want further advice, please contact the Trading Standards Service on 01254 585904.