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The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has raised serious concern with the growing infestation of the roofing sheets subsector by unscrupulous traders that are taking advantage of unsuspecting consumers.
CCPC said it had noted a trend of traders advertising roofing sheets online at highly attractive and unusually low prices, who however, once payment was made, delay or completely fail to supply the roofing sheets altogether.
Florence Zaza, Senior Public Relations Officer, Competition and Consumer Protection Commission said this in a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday.
Some traders allegedly deliver roofing sheets of a lesser thickness than what was paid for. For instance, consumers who pay for roofing sheets of 0.4 millimetres thickness may instead be supplied with roofing sheets of 0.3mm thickness or below.
“If a Consumer pays for 4 metres length, they are supplied with roofing sheets only 3m long,” Zaza claimed.
Further, investigations undertaken by the Commission revealed that the traders were often difficult to trace, as they frequently opened and closed operations, making it challenging for affected consumers to seek redress.
In light of this development, CCPC is urging consumers to exercise due diligence before engaging in transactions involving roofing sheets.
“Consumers are advised to take the following precautionary measures such as being cautious of prices that appear unusually low or too good to be true and physically visit stores, if possible, to verify advertisements and confirm availability of stock,” she said.
Zaza urged consumers to request and verify business registration certificates and other relevant documentation, transact with reputable and established businesses and consult widely and seek recommendations on credible and reliable suppliers.
She further warned traders engaging in deceptive practices to cease and desist from such conduct immediately, as the law would take its full course against any individuals or entities found in violation of consumer protection laws and other related laws.
Zaza said the Commission remained committed to safeguarding consumer interests and promoting fair trading practices in all sectors of the economy.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected unfair trading practices to CCPC for appropriate action,” she said.
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