Our Trading Standards team is encouraging residents to be vigilant after cold callers tried to sell thousands of pounds worth of insulation to vulnerable residents.
The government’s Green Homes Grant Scheme enabled eligible homeowners to apply for a voucher, worth up to £10,000, to spend on energy saving home improvements but Medway’s Trading Standards team are aware that some scammers are trying to abuse the scheme.
They have been made aware of an incident in Rochester where a cold caller claimed he could offer residents government subsidies and special deals which were only available for 24 hours. The resident reported this incident to Trading Standards.
The team has also received reports of similar scams in Chatham and Strood. Residents have said they felt pressured into signing a contract on their doorstep.
Cold calling is often used by rogue traders
Cllr Jane Chitty, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, Economic Growth and Regulation, covering Trading Standards, said: “Cold calling is often used by rogue traders hoping to catch residents off guard and take as much money from them as possible. Residents are strongly advised never to buy goods or sign up to services on their doorsteps. If someone offers you a service which interests you, ask them to leave information and research the company online or speak to friends or neighbours for advice. If you, or someone you know, has been approached by traders offering home insultation products, using pressure sales techniques, please report it to our Trading Standards team.”
Residents can contact Medway’s Trading Services team by calling 0808 2231133 or emailing consumer.protection@medway.gov.uk.