Businesses beware: a warning from the Office of Fair Trading

The Isle of Man Office of Fair Trading has issued a warning to businesses operating workshops or construction sites to think twice before doing business with cold-callers offering to sharpen tools.

The OFT is aware of at least two men in a French registered vehicle who are currently operating on this basis in the Island.

Chief Inspector of Trading Standards, John Peet says: “It may be that the gentlemen concerned are offering a genuine service but it could also be a scam, possibly involving VAT. I understand that they can be very pushy so make some basic checks before you employ them. Have they got work permits? Do they have a genuine VAT number? Make sure that you agree to a price that is a quote rather than an estimate as they may come back with an extortionate bill.

Anyone approached by these gentlemen is asked to contact Trading Standards on 686500.”