‘Green deal’ scam

ISLANDERS are being warned to be on their guard against cold calls from a company claiming to be offering a “Green Deal” to households.

Shetland Islands Council’s trading standards department last week warned of the dangers, and a number of readers have since contacted Shetland News to say the cold calls are continuing.

One got in touch to say their neighbour had been caught out by the company, which called and promised to conduct an energy efficiency survey at their home. After getting hold of the individuals’ bank account details, it then withdrew £149 but never turned up to carry out the survey.

Trading standards team leader David Marsh said a “significant number of people” had been in touch about the scam.

“In most cases, the householder has been left somewhat baffled and bewildered,” Marsh said. “The callers tend to be rather vague about who they represent, and spend most of the call talking about thousands of pounds of government money being available for energy efficiency improvements.

“In reality, the reason for their call is to try to get you to pay an upfront fee for a Green Deal assessment and the caller asks for a bank account or credit card details to be given over the phone in order to secure a survey appointment.”

Marsh pointed out that help is at hand: the SIC has recently been accredited to carry out genuine Green Deal assessments. It means council staff can carry out the assessments then make recommendations for energy saving improvements – and in some cases grant funding can be offered towards the cost.

Scottish Government funding allows the local authority to carry out the survey – in many instances without charging a penny.

Marsh said: “So, if you are cold called by someone offering money for energy retrofit works to your home or business remember that it is best to be cautious. Do not give out financial or payment details over the phone.”

He advises householders to check with the council’s environment and energy team to see whether they are eligible for a free survey.

This can be done by phoning (01595) 744848, while an advice leaflet with simple low-cost measures to reduce energy consumption is available online.