A WARNING has been issued after cold callers tried to sell thousands of pounds worth of unnecessary and potentially damaging insulation to vulnerable elderly people in Herefordshire.
The government’s Green Homes Grant offers eligible homeowners in up to £10,000 of energy saving improvements, but some doorstep traders are already trying to abuse the scheme, according to Herefordshire Council Trading Standards.
Despite having Trustmark accreditation which qualifies a company to take part in the scheme, one such firm has been cold calling vulnerable elderly residents in Herefordshire to sign them up for contracts costing in excess of £8,000 for spray foam loft insulation which is applied to the underside of the roof.
Spray foam loft insulation is unnecessary in domestic properties unless you actually use the loft space as part of your living accommodation. The recommended insulation is standard ceiling level mineral wool insulation laid out to a depth of 300mm. At worst some homes may just need a top-up, which is often free from your energy supplier.
Spray foam loft insulation can indirectly cause timber rot in the rafters and reduce the value of the property as some lenders will not offer mortgages on homes with such insulation installed.
David Hough, Herefordshire Council’s Trading Standards service sanager, said: “We urge consumers not to engage with cold callers under any circumstances.
"If you have been approached for this type of insulation, or know of anybody who has, please contact Trading Standards immediately via the Citizens Advice helpline on 0808 2231133 and we will get in touch and almost certainly advise you to cancel the deal.
“These cold callers are also in breach of the Government guidance during the current covid-19 lockdown which is that all cold calling should cease.
"These salespeople are visiting numerous elderly residents every day, entering properties and putting some of the most vulnerable people in society at increased risk.
"We strongly advise residents not to let these scammers into your house.”
For more information on the Green Homes Grant scheme, visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-the-green-homes-grant-scheme
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