News / Green Deal warning
SHETLAND Islands Council is warning islanders not to rush into making decisions on improving the energy efficiency of their homes after receiving a number of complaints about Green Deal cold callers.
Trading standards said several people reported being asked for bank details to pay for an assessment with no indication given about who might carry out the work.
Team leader David Marsh said: “Never give out bank account, card numbers or other personal details to someone who phones you up and asks for them.”
The Green Deal is one of several government schemes designed to help with the costs of making homes more energy efficient.
In this case the householder would pay for the work carried out through several years of payback charges on their electricity bills.
On Tuesday, the council advised islanders to think twice before signing up to any such schemes as other funding options were becoming available, particularly for those who are on low incomes or receiving tax credits or other benefits.
The SIC’s energy and environment service will be launching a package of measures aimed at helping local people to easily access national funding, next month.
Trading standards said: “Don’t rush into home improvements; they are long-term investments, which should be given careful consideration.
More information about dealing with cold callers, including information about your cancellation rights, as well as general consumer advice can be found at: www.shetland.gov.uk/tradingstandards
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