Trading Standards is again warning residents to be on their guard for doorstep scams involving a new Government-backed energy saving scheme.
February saw the launch of the Government’s ‘Green Deal’ scheme. Under the scheme, consumers are able to pay for home improvements to make homes more energy efficient. The scheme works by householders having their properties assessed and then a provider carries out the actual work – which may include heating works, insulation, window improvements etc.
A business currently operating in Cefn Hengoed is claiming that householders are entitled to £10,000 of funding for home improvements and that the improvements will be free.
The business then requests a £299 “admin fee” to undertake various tasks on behalf of the householder.
It is the second time such a warning has been issued by Caerphilly County Borough Council.
The message from Trading Standards is that consumers should not contract with anyone calling door-to-door – the green deal is only able to be delivered through government contracted assessors and providers identifiable by a unique government allocated number.
These contractors are identified with unique numbers which have been allocated to them – the details of these can be found at www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-saving-measures or by calling 0300 123 1234.
Cllr David Poole, Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure Services, said: “We want to get the message across to residents that it is very important to check the legitimacy of businesses offering services through door-to-door sales. I would encourage anyone who has had contact with a business operating in this manner to call Trading Standards to report the issue.”
To report an issue to Trading Standards in Caerphilly County Borough, call 01495 235 291.
Information on the green deal is available from www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-saving-measures or by calling 0300 123 1234.