AN elderly man was almost duped by rogue traders who attempted to overcharge him more than £4,000 for works.

Essex Police has issued a warning after the so-called company has been reported to be knocking on doors in Colchester in recent days.

It is said they are offering to fix broken roof tiles and then, once on the roof, are claiming that have completed additional work not agreed to.

Officers attended a property in the city yesterday and prevented a man handing over man than £5,500 for work originally quoted at £1,400.

The elderly gentleman is now being supported by the force after the incident.

Essex Police says all the details from the concerning incident have been passed onto Essex Trading Standards.

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A spokesman has now warned residents to be aware of anyone knocking on their door offering their services.

“Do your research before agreeing to anything and compare prices from different companies,” he said.

“Get written quotes with the company details on. Rogue traders can be more expensive and sometimes increase the price after the work has been carried out.”