VICTIMS of flooding in South Lakeland whose properties were damaged in the recent severe storms have been warned to be on their guard against bogus workmen who are praying on their misfortune.

South Cumbria crime prevention officer Terry Belshaw issued the warning to homeowners in a bid to help snare unscrupulous workmen who may be targeting vulnerable residents across the region.

Severa l homes were hit by flooding across South Lakeland, including a handful in the Mintsfeet Road area of Kendal.

Mr Belshaw urged them to take the following steps to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous workers, who could compound victims' misery further by leaving them with unnecessary and hefty repair bills.

Be aware that callers offering to do repairs may not be reputable, and do not be too trusting.

Always check ID and verify the caller is reputable by checking they are listed in directories such as Yellow Pages.

Do not rush to get repairs done. Insurance companies may insist on checking damage before repairs are undertaken.

Get written quotes, and more than one, as verbal quotes can lead to disagreements later on.

Take the names of people you are dealing with, including information such as the vehicle registration of vehicles used.

If you suspect a caller at your door ask permission to take their photographs. If they have nothing to fear then they will not mind.

Do not pay any money until the work has been completed satisfactorily.

If you fear a caller is bogus call Kendal Police on 01539 722611.

"I hope people will also be good neighbours and look out for other people's property if there are suspicious callers going around," said Mr Belshaw.

Mr Belshaw also advised homeowners who may have to buy new items to replace damaged ones to mark them with a security marker.

He added that anyone who is buying replacement doors should check that they meet with the latest safety standards. For doors the safety code is PS24 and for windows it is BS7950.