As spring approaches (hopefully!), many homeowners eagerly embark on renovations and maintenance projects, including essential rooftop repairs and upgrades.However, when having work done on your roof, you should keep the following in mind:

It is possible, that a minor repair is all that is needed. Always get a second opinion and a written quote if someone suggests you should have your whole roof replaced.

If you ask for quotes on the internet, you open yourself up to being contacted by anyone – reputable builders and roofing companies, but also fraudsters. It is better to ask friends and neighbours, who had work done in the past, for recommendations.

Do not rely on a photo that seems to have been taken of the damage on your roof.

If you are elderly and are in any doubt about work that is being offered, ask your adult children, friends or neighbours for advice before agreeing to expensive work being carried out on your property.

Any fraudulent activity from gross overcharging or doing work that doesn’t need doing, should be reported to the police on 101 and to Trading Standards on 0808 223 1133

There has been a spike in tool theft in the Thames Valley area, including south Buckinghamshire, specifically targeting the property of tradesmen by breaking into vans.

This crime can be particularly harmful as it can have severe effects on businesses and livelihoods, due to loss of time, revenue and expenses to replace tools. Thieves are usually opportunists above all else and will take advantages of easy steals, so it is crucial it is not made convenient for them.

Lock your tools in a secure van, aim to vault bolt the tools to the floor of the van; remove them at night and store them in a safe place. Always lock your van and close your windows, possibly investing in a good quality alarm. If you do have an alarm, make sure it is always set and in working order.

Mark your tools by using ultraviolent pens and permanent markers and record your serial numbers and identifiable markings. You can register your tools on “Immbolise”, which is the national property register and it is integrated into the police system. Security solution companies like Smartwater, SelectaDNA and datatag are very effective in helping you protect your property.