The Public Protection Partnership (PPP) have warned Berkshire residents to be wary of rogue traders exploiting damage caused by storms Eunice, Dudley and Franklin.

Their Trading Standards team said the recent bad weather could provide an opportunity for rogue traders to prey on desperate residents keen to fix their leaking roof or broken fences.

Rogue traders may cold call with such tactics as saying they’re already ‘working in the area’, the PPP warned.

Read more: How Storm Eunice hit Berkshire 

Chair of the Joint Public Protection Committee and Bracknell Forest councillor John Harrison said: “Residents should not feel pressured to agree for any type of work to be done on their home after an unsolicited knock at the door. It’s okay to say ‘no’.

“Please also be wary of recommendations from unverified sources. It is often best to check with people you know who’ve used traders and not just names on a social media platform.

“Many platforms have verification processes for this. Finally if you are looking to make an insurance claim it is important to engage your insurance company before agreeing to any work."

If you are concerned you may have been contacted by a rogue trader then contact PPP's trading standards team on 01635 519930 or email tsadvice@westberks.gov.uk