GANGS of cowboy builders are taking advantage of residents by carrying out poor quality work.

Trading Standards teams in Hartlepool have received complaints about poor foundations for new driveways, thin and poor quality surfacing that wears easily and cannot support the weight of a vehicle.

Each year, the council receives complaints from people who have taken up a doorstep salesman's offer to resurface their drives only to discover that the work is very poor quality and not worth the money paid.

Often the victim is pressured into paying up front, or at the end of the job he or she is confronted by a gang of workmen demanding a large payment.

The quote for the job is often vague, and once the work has been done, the gang disappears and cannot be traced, despite having given a lengthy "guarantee period".

The gangs often dump the rubble from the driveway illegally, leaving a clean-up problem for the local council or landowner.

Michael Welsh, Hartlepool Borough Council's principal trading standards officer, said: "Our advice is simple - if someone turns up on your doorstep wanting to resurface your drive, say no and stick firmly to that. Don't be pressured or intimidated into changing your mind.

"If you do want your drive resurfacing, approach reputable contractors and obtain a detailed quote including what the foundations will consist of, how deep they will be and what the surface covering will be.

"You should also be given a document setting out exactly what your rights are and outlining your right to a seven day 'cooling off' period.

"Don't pay in advance - only pay when the work is finished and you are satisfied that it has been done in accordance with the contract."

Hartlepool Trading Standards can be contacted on (01429) 523352.

The Northern Echo launched its Doorsteppers campaign in 2003 to crack down on bogus tradesmen and cold callers in the region.