Unlicensed door sellers in South Northants

Posted 1 week ago in Residents' Information

We are urging people to be vigilant after a spate of unlicensed door sellers in South Northants, also known as “Nottingham Knockers”.

They will often offer household cleaning products for sale from rucksacks or suitcases and on this occasion, there have been reports of them initially claiming there is a gas leak and requesting access to resident's homes. When this has failed, they have changed their tactic back to selling items.

• Please be vigilant, do not purchase anything and NEVER hand over cash on your doorstep.
• Don't allow someone to access your home unless you have a prearranged visit and they can verify who they are.
• If they claim to be from a legitimate company, close the door and call the company on a number you have sought yourself.
• If you feel threatened, close the door and contact police.
• Always ensure your property is fully secure.
• The items offered are often of low quality and advertised at inflated prices.
• The “sales pitches” can also be part of a wider operation to identify burglary targets.
• Those involved may claim to be part of rehabilitation schemes and could produce ID cards – these are false and have no legal bearing.
• Never buy anything from these people and report them to police.
• Visit www.northantspolice.co.uk or call 101.
• Always dial 999 in an emergency.

Not expecting a caller?  Don’t recognise the person at your door?  If you’re not sure, don’t open the door!

Don’t enter into a conversation with cold callers. It’s not rude to ignore them.

Never employ anyone who knocks on your door offering trades or services. A reputable trader will never cold call

Join our DOORSTEP ACTION NETWORK. Request your free No Cold Callers door sticker from crimeprevention@northants.police.uk