Advice on how you can be protected from scammers after rogue trader duo sentenced

Advice on how you can be protected from scammers after rogue trader duo sentenced

A father and son duo from Old Woking have been sentenced for running a rogue trading scam that targeted elderly and vulnerable residents across Woking in Surrey and Pulborough in Sussex.

The defendants callously sought out 25 elderly and vulnerable victims and deceived them out of an estimated £125,000. This figure is likely to be higher and there are likely to be more victims we have not been made aware of. Tragically, several victims have since passed away, leaving their families picking up the pieces whilst dealing with the grief of losing their loved ones.

The group operated under a number of fake company names, where they offered roofing and guttering work. They would typically quote for a smaller job, and then as the works progressed, they would conveniently uncover additional jobs that needed doing, which increased the price. Whilst they did complete some of the works, these were often substandard and caused more damage.

William Smith, 35, and his son Joseph Smith, 18, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud following a lengthy three-year investigation by officers.

The full press release can be viewed here, which includes images of the duo and more information about their offending.

At sentencing, Judge Ms Recorder S Presland commented on the Smiths saying they saw the vulnerable elderly victims as “cash cows” and said that William was clearly the “brains of the operation” and that he “organised it and taught the others”.

The father and son appeared at Croydon County Court on Monday, 3 November for sentencing. William Smith, (DOB: 06/07/1990) was sentenced to 3 years and 9 months custodial.

Joseph Smith, (D.O.B: 07/06/2007) was given a 20-month custodial sentence in a young offender institution, suspended for 23 months. He is also required to complete 50 hours unpaid work and attend rehabilitation for 30 days.

A 16-year-old male from Pulborough who cannot be named for legal reasons, is due to appear at Guildford Magistrates Court for sentencing on Wednesday, 17 December.

Rogue traders are criminals who take as much money as possible from their victims – who are often elderly and live alone. please report any incidents of rogue trading to us or Trading Standards as this really helps us see the bigger picture and to identify key offenders.

Try to avoid talking to unexpected ‘tradespeople’ at your door as it is unusual that legitimate tradespeople will cold call you.

Check that the trader is registered with a truster trade scheme. Check reviews, ask for references and do your research. If you can’t find any information, there's usually a reason.

If possible, get at least three written quotes and avoid paying for work at your doorstep and do not go to a cash machine if asked to.

A genuine roofer will happily give you a written estimate. Rogue traders often avoid paperwork — or try to get cash up front.

Never pay in full before the work is done.

If you’re unsure, speak to a family member, friend, or neighbour before agreeing to anything. Rogue traders rely on pressure and isolation — so take your time and get a second opinion.

We would strongly recommend installing video doorbells, as they can capture key evidence should anything happen.

Ensure you report any suspicious activity and if someone’s knocking on doors or making you feel pressured, you can call the police on 101 — or 999 in an emergency.

Please share this advice with friends, family, neighbours, or anyone else you think might fall victim to this type of scam.

Remember — a trustworthy roofer won’t rush you, demand cash, or hide their details.

Take your time, check they are legitimate, and keep yourself — and your money — safe.

Please share this advice with friends, family, neighbours, or anyone else you think might fall victim to this type of scam.

Report all incidents of doorstep crime to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or to the police on 101, in case of an emergency contact the police on 999.

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Message Sent By
Sam Mack
(Surrey Police, Communications Officer, Surrey Police Corporate Communications)