Guidance forConsumers
Citizens Advice can provide free, confidential and independent advice to help you with a problem you may be having with a trader or business. Visit Citizens Advice or call on
03454 04 05 06
We are unable to advise on consumer issues directly but Citizens Advice refers complex or urgent enquiries, and those requiring further action, back to us. We can only deal with the criminal aspect of any problem, which may mean you will have to take civil action if, for example, you believe a trader owes you compensation.
Help and advice for consumers
We are here to help ensure that consumers across Devon, Somerset and Torbay can have confidence that they’ll be treated fairly and within the law by businesses.
Consumer advice guides
Our guides provide comprehensive advice on your rights and what you can do if things go wrong, including how to try to resolve a dispute with a trader.
Product safety and recalls
We try to ensure that all products on sale within the two counties are safe and that any hazards are correctly labelled. Occasionally unsafe products get onto the market and a safety recall is issued.
Scams, rogue traders and doorstep crime
Information and advice to help you to avoid falling victim.
Consumer awareness easy read guides
Download our easy read guides on buying products and services, and staying safe from rogue traders.
Buy With Confidence
Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service runs the Buy With Confidence scheme to promote the highest standards of trading across the two counties, for the benefit of both consumers and businesses. Traders who are part of the scheme have been vetted by Trading Standards to ensure they operate within the law and treat customers fairly.
Latest consumer news
Rogue handyman admits defrauding elderly lady over ‘years’
A rogue handyman has pleaded guilty to fraud after charging a vulnerable pensioner £100,000 for gardening and maintenance work. At Taunton Crown Court on Monday 16 September, Thomas Samuel Godfrey, … Continue reading
Don’t become a victim – training resource is launched to safeguard young people from scams
A free training resource, designed to help safeguard children and young people from scams, has been launched by Devon, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards today. Young Friends Against Scams has … Continue reading
Multi-agency investigation into trading of endangered species
Thirty macaque skulls were seized from a property in South Devon following a search by officers from Devon and Cornwall Police, supported by partners including trading standards. On Tuesday 13 … Continue reading