Test Valley a hotspot for suspected cowboy builder scams

Figures based on Citizens Advice complaint data show the borough has the second-highest rate in England and Wales, with nearly 18 per cent of home maintenance and improvement complaints flagged as potential scams.

The study, carried out by home improvement specialist Leader Online, found 67 of the 380 complaints recorded in Test Valley between 2022 and January 2026 were suspected to involve rogue traders.

Only the Forest of Dean had a higher share of complaints linked to possible scams.

The South East had the country’s second-highest scam rate, 11.9 per cent, behind only the East of England.

David Turner, Leader Online’s head of product, said the figures showed why people must stay alert when hiring tradespeople.

He said: "These figures do not mean every complaint flagged as a potential scam was confirmed as fraud, but they do show why it is important to check the details before a project starts.

"A good tradesperson should be clear about what is included in the quote, which materials will be used, how long the work should take, and when payments are due.

"If those details feel vague, rushed, or keep changing, it’s sensible to pause before handing over money."

Residents are urged to check traders, get recommendations and avoid big upfront payments to cut their scam risk.

Hampshire County Council leader, Cllr Nick Adams-King, said: "I am very concerned by any suggestion that rogue builders may be targeting residents in Test Valley. These criminals can cause enormous financial and emotional harm, particularly when they prey on older or vulnerable people.

"However, these figures need to be treated with some care. They relate to complaints flagged as potential scams, not confirmed cases of fraud. Test Valley also has an older-than-average population, including many well-educated and experienced people in retirement who understand their rights and are more likely to challenge poor practice and make a complaint.

"We are also fortunate to have a very active and visible Citizens Advice service in Test Valley. Its teams do an excellent job supporting and advocating for residents, and making sure concerns are properly reported and referred.

"Hampshire County Council Trading Standards takes rogue trading extremely seriously. Since 2022 it has pursued major cases, including the successful prosecution of a fraudulent builder responsible for more than £642,000 of losses across 29 properties, resulting in a five-year prison sentence. My advice is simple: never be pressured into agreeing work on the doorstep, get written quotations and report any concerns promptly to Citizens Advice so they can be passed to Trading Standards."

To view the research in its entirety, visit: leaderonline.com/pages/cowboy-builder-hotspots