Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Trading Standards team is warning residents to be alert for doorstep scams offering ‘green deals’.
It is the third time Trading Standards have warned against such a scam this year.
February this year 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. In January a similar scheme called the Energy Companies Obligation Scheme, or ECA, was also launched.
Both schemes work by householders having their properties assessed and then a provider carries out energy-saving work – which may include heating works, insulation and window improvements.
Trading Standards are warning there are companies cold calling residents, both on the doorstep and on the telephone, which aim to make money through unnecessary one-off fees.
Cllr Dave Poole, Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure Services, said: “It is important that residents are aware that third party companies who appear to be offering the Green Deal and the ECO Scheme by contacting customers are not controlled or regulated and may attempt to get consumers to part with cash that they need not spend.
“Always check if a business is accredited before allowing them to undertake any energy efficiency works to your home, and if you have any suspicions I would encourage you to contact Trading Standards.”
To check that a business is an accredited Green Deal Assessor, Provider or Installer visit http://gdorb.decc.gov.uk/ or for businesses offering the ECO Scheme contact your own energy supplier.