Police warn Britons to check home for 'code' left by rogue traders marking them as targets

SWNS

One dodgy builder left a distinct square mark with different coloured blocks at an elderly couple's home after massively overcharging them by 4,000.

The 70-year-old resident, who was convinced they needed the work by the cowboy, thought nothing of the pattern until other rogue traders kept calling over a period of five years.

The elderly couple from Plymstock, Devon eventually called police who said they believed the pattern left in the driveway was a code to encourage other rogue traders.

Homeowners have also been warned to look for other "codes" left by cowboy builders such as chalk marks on walls, a single discoloured roof tile or marks left on the guttering.

SWNS

I believe the paving symbol, which I didn't ask for, is a signal for other people to look out for

The victim of rogue traders

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "There are grounds to suspect it is there to identify the house as a potential target for these type of offences."

The unnamed pensioner who had the "code" left on their home paid unscrupulous workers 4,000 for a paved front drive which was left unfinished in August 2009.

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Police warn Britons to check home for 'code' left by rogue traders marking them as targets