Hampshire Trading Standards Warnings

Hampshire Trading Standards have been made aware of the following:

Cold callers at the door offering to carry out a free insulation survey of their home.

The caller may make false claims such as they are ‘working for or on behalf of local authorities’, or that they ‘work with Trading Standards’. One report said the caller was in uniform, and that any insulation would be free.

The National Insulation Association (NIA) represents the insulation industry in the United Kingdom and have a code of professional practice that all members agree to follow. It is recommended that if considering any form of insulation, you consult their website and for always use an NIA installer or by calling 08451 636363.

For further information on energy savings you can contact the Energy Savings Trust on 0300 123 1234.

Cold callers attempting to carry out roofing repairs.

Reports have come from the Havant area, but the warning applies county wide.

Prices are inflated, and work of poor quality.

Cold callers offereing work to unblock drains.

Exaggerated claims about the state of the drains may be made, and elaborate stories given as the reason for the call. False footage of a blocked drain may be shown to the resident.

Offers to clear the drains are made, and sometimes money is demanded up front. Prices may be inflated, and may not be given before the work is started.

Trading Standards advise residents not to agree to work that is instigated as a result of a cold call, or via a leaflet drop. Residents should obtain at least 3 written quotes from reputable businesses or traders who are either members of the Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Buy With Confidence Scheme or a recognised trade association.

Members of the Buy With Confidence scheme are fully audited to ensure their trading practices are legal, honest and fair. All members have been checked for trustworthiness and compliance with consumer protection laws. Details can be obtained by telephoning 01962 833620, emailing [email protected] or via the Buy With Confidence website.

To inform Trading Standards about companies offering insulation surveys where false claims are suspected, contact our partners at the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06. Please try to obtain a name and address for the company.

If the matter is urgent, or where there are personal safety concerns, contact Hampshire Police on their non-urgent number 101 or dial 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated.