ELDERLY householders have been warned to beware bogus builders who rip off customers for shoddy work.

Trading standards staff say they are determined to rein in "cowboy" tradesmen as the number of complaints continue to rise.

Councillor Pam Walker, public protection spokesman, said there seemed to be "an increasing number of undesirables" on the prowl.

She added: "Our trading standards staff work hard, often with the police, to prevent people falling prey to these individuals. Sadly, many householders get caught out. We are issuing some early advice in the hope that we can protect as many of our residents as possible."

Advice to householders includes:

don't take anyone at face value who calls and says your house needs work. Unscrupulous traders have been known to tell people that unless they have work done immediately an accident could happen and they would be responsible if anyone was hurt. Always get a second opinion.

ask for a written quotation on headed paper, and check the name and address. Get at least two other quotations.

choose a contractor who is a member of a professional trade association, and check to see if they are.

use personal recommendations from people you know.

ask the builder for a list of jobs he has done in the area, and follow up any references.

only pay the price you have agreed with a contractor.

if you must pay money in advance, keep it small and only pay the balance once satisfied with the work.

before any work is started, try to get a completion date.

Mr Peter Jagger, trading standards manager, added: "If you are alone or elderly and are afraid if a contractor seems to be pestering you, contact the police or the trading standards in Bury. Hopefully if you follow these guidelines you will not end up as another horror story that people read about."

Trading standards are based at Textile Hall in Manchester Road, Bury, open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Telephone 253 5566 or email at tradingstandards@bury.gov.uk