THURROCK Council are sending out a warning reminding people to be wary of rogue traders offering bogus waste removal services.

The warning is part of the Environmental Enforcement Department's effort to stop people hiring tradesman like builders and gardeners who fly-tip materials instead of disposing of them correctly.

Thurrock Council is able to fine residents that have not taken care to ensure that waste is passed on to an authorised company or individual.

Firms which remove waste materials from properties need a waste carrier registration.

Rogue traders will also not provide any paperwork or traceable address.

Telephone numbers given by rogue traders may stop working once you have handed over the cash.

Ask any contractor if they're a registered waste carrier and ask for their waste carrier number.

Contact the Environment Agency on 08708 506506 and ask for a Waste carrier Validation Check.

If your contractor is not registered, you should refuse their services and request they seek advice from the Environment Agency.