Trading Standards Officers at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar have repeated warnings about worthless guarantees following several enquiries about the issue this week.

Consumers in the Western Isles have been approached by sales representatives offering contracts for house maintenance services such as painting and roof preparations. It has been brought to the attention of Trading Standards that these contracts do not contain the statutory seven day cancellation rights. These give the consumer the option to cancel for any reason within seven days. The duty to provide a notice of cancellation rights is a legal obligation on the trader.

In the past there have been problems where consumers have been told that their work was covered by a 25 year warranty. Subsequently it has been discovered that the company who did the work have ceased trading, and the guarantee is worthless.

If you are concerned or have paid a deposit contact Trading Standards on 01851 709577.