Residents in Brecon are being urged to stay vigilant after reports of rogue gardeners targeting the area.

Powys County Council's Trading Standards Service has issued a warning, advising the public to be cautious of itinerant gardeners offering unregulated services at suspiciously low prices.

These rogue traders often operate by preying on vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly, with a range of deceptive tactics. Residents are being reminded of the common signs to watch for: unusually cheap prices, verbal quotes only, no references, and offers to start work immediately. In some cases, rogue landscapers claim that trees are "illegal" and must be removed, another common tactic used to manipulate homeowners.

The council also warns against unsolicited calls from traders, reminding residents to report any suspicious doorstep interactions to the police by calling 101.

Cllr Richard Church, Cabinet Member for a Safer Powys, said: “We want to keep our communities safe and this includes protecting people from rogue traders and doorstep crime.

“Rogue gardeners often prey on the vulnerable, particularly the elderly. It’s really important that people look out for the signs, remain vigilant and keep an eye out for elderly friends, relatives and neighbours.”

While the gardening and landscaping industry remains largely unregulated, rogue traders are often also involved in other forms of unscrupulous work such as roofing, driveway resurfacing, and general building maintenance. The work they offer is typically of poor quality and can be dangerous, with customers often finding themselves paying far more than they expected - and sometimes for work that is never even completed.

The council is urging anyone approached by a cold caller to take precautions before agreeing to any work. People are advised to check the trader’s credentials carefully, especially any phone numbers provided, and to carry out online research to look for any negative reviews or complaints. Friends and neighbours may have useful information, and any listed address should be checked to ensure it’s real and in use.

Residents should ask for references, view previous work if possible, and check that any claimed trade association membership is genuine.

A written quotation should always be obtained before work begins, including the trader’s full name and address and a clear breakdown of costs. Residents are encouraged to keep a record of any vehicles involved, including registration numbers, in case issues arise later.

Importantly, no money should be handed over until the work is completed to the customer’s satisfaction. Payments should be made by cheque or credit card where possible, and people should never feel pressured into withdrawing cash.

Legislation requires cold callers to give consumers a ‘cancellation notice’, giving them 14 days to cancel the contract made for any work over £42. Failure to issue a cancellation notice in the correct manner is a criminal offence.

Anyone who thinks they may be a victim or thinks someone they know may have been, should get in touch with Citizens Advice consumer helpline free on 0808 223 1133 or to contact a Welsh-speaking adviser call 0808 223 1144.