Warning issued in Tønsberg against illegal tire services and unregistered businesses

The head of the a-crime center in Tønsberg is warning against illegal tire services. Unregistered businesses may engage in unregistered labor, welfare abuse, violations of labor laws, black market sales, and cash-in-hand work. All companies providing car washing, tire changing, and storage must be approved by the Labour Inspection Authority.

Maria-Diane Slettvik, the center’s leader, emphasizes that while the majority of tire services are legitimate, there are also unscrupulous operators. She urges people to seek reputable businesses when preparing their vehicles for winter, as the industry faces issues such as undeclared workers, welfare fraud, and gross exploitation of vulnerable employees.

Slettvik suggests that customers should pay for tire changes using cards or the mobile payment service Vipps to ensure a secure transaction. The Labour Inspection Authority maintains a list of certified companies offering car washing, tire changes, and tire storage.

Local resident Fredrik Lavik admits he hadn’t considered the issue before but relies on known garages, assuming they operate correctly. Meanwhile, Tor Olav Eikrem expresses concern about social dumping but is unsure how many people prioritize this.

Slettvik stresses the importance of consumer awareness regarding the businesses they choose. She warns that using non-compliant firms could lead to serious consequences, including being held accountable for a business’s unpaid taxes.

Tone Pedersen acknowledges that cost is a significant factor for many, but she prioritizes using certified businesses for safety and assurance regarding tire quality.