Consumer Advice

Telephone and Online Assistance

Call our partner Advice Direct Scotland, 0808 164 6000, for clear, practical consumer advice: available 9.00am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (closed on public holidays). You can make a complaint using the online complaint form.

Advice Direct Scotland

We offer consumer advice and assistance and can help with disputes between consumers and businesses. When all else fails, we can assist with small claims actions.

You can get advice online from Advice Direct Scotland.

Doorstep Consumer Crime

Doorstep Crime can affect anyone, but it is often older and vulnerable people who are targeted. Common practices include high pressure / aggressive sales techniques and carrying out unnecessary work to a low standard at  inflated cost. The most serious problems are associated with higher value home and garden repairs and maintenance. 

Trading Standards advice is never to agree to work on the doorstep. Doorstep sellers are often trained in pressure sales techniques and they can be very persuasive. Your best protection is to say: “No thank you” and close the door. If you think that work is needed to your property get quotes from two or three traders and compare them. Ask someone you can trust for a recommendation, or use one of the recognised trader approval schemes listed below. Don’t hurry to part with your money.

Trader Approval Schemes

NICEIC - Electricians

Renewable Energy Consumer Code - Small-scale renewable and low carbon heat or power generating systems

Scams

There are many different kinds of scams aimed at consumers and businesses, from miracle lotions to bogus investments. The more you know about them, the less likely you are to fall for them.

Always stop and think - Take Five to Stop Fraud:

1. Never disclose security details, such as your PIN or full banking password
2. Don’t assume an email, text or phone call is authentic
3. Don’t be rushed – a genuine organisation won’t mind waiting
4. Listen to your instincts – you know if something doesn’t feel right
5. Stay in control – don’t panic and make a decision you’ll regret

More information on scams is available at:

Citizens Advice Consumer Service

Police Scotland – Shut Out Scammers