Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has warned householders in flood-hit areas to guard against cowboy builders as she outlined Government commitment to support communities on the long-term task of reconstruction.

According to latest information from the Association of British Insurers 45,000 households have made insurance claims in relation to the June and July floods with 14,500 from commercial properties – this includes damage to hundreds of schools, roads and other infrastructure.

Reconstruction is therefore a key priority in the next phase of recovery efforts.

While the vast majority of people, including the building industry, are responding positively to this challenge there have been reports of both bogus traders and cowboy builders operating in flood-affected areas.

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Fraudsters are offering a range of work from construction, tree chopping, garden clearance and roof cleaning. Clearly substandard work may be dangerous and will only add to the misery of local people and bring additional costs.

The Government has held discussions with the construction and insurance industry as well as local agencies this week. Discussions are focusing on helping people find reputable builders.

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears said: “Whilst the flooding may have receded, the damage to homes and businesses remains. We will continue to do all we can working with the construction industry, insurers and local agencies on the reconstruction efforts over the coming months.”

Age Concern’s Director General, Gordon Lishman also commented: “This is an extremely difficult time for many people and it is appalling to think that there are unscrupulous people out there looking to benefit from other people’s. Bogus or rogue traders often prey on vulnerable older people in particular, and can be very convincing. The government’s move to publicise this issue and highlight to those in flood-affected areas how to find disqualified tradesmen and avoid rogue traders is very welcome.

“It is always advisable to check someone’s credentials before agreeing to have any work done but it is worth remembering that the majority of tradesmen will be genuine.”

(JM/SP)