SIR,

I am continually amazed at certain traits of human nature.

We have a TV weekly programme that highlights how trusting far too many people are.

There is no way I would hand over any amount of money on a promise of work to be done.

Some years ago I had a so-called 'carpenter' in to fit a pair of louvre doors to separate the lounge from the dining room.

After a couple of hours I sent him on his way because I could tell that he was out of his depth and would be wasting my money.

If you have a genuine tradesman in to complete work for you he will not expect (or shouldn't) money up front.

If it is to buy goods, tell him to bring the invoice (he will be invoiced monthly) with him and you will pay for the goods on delivery, with a legitimate invoice from the supplier.

He should not be paid any money until a number of days work has been done or, if longer than a week, then an agreed amount at the end of the week.

That way he is being paid for work done – which is fair, and you have an agreed amount of work that you pay for.

Final settlement should be paid on completion.

D Tudor Greaves

(Monmouth)