News / ‘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.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
