Bogus 'green' salesman warnings in Brighton and Hove (From The Argus)
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Bogus 'green' salesman warnings in Brighton and Hove
3:43pm Friday 12th October 2012 in News By Tim Ridgway, Local government reporter
Salesman are targeting homes in Brighton with false claims about how eco-improvements can lead to council tax savings.
Hundreds of properties have been visited by doorstep representatives from firms looking to sell cavity wall and loft insulation to residents.
Trading standards officials have rubbished the claim, with some critics blasting the companies as “liars” and “conmen”.
Brian Fitch, who represents Hangleton and Knoll on Brighton and Hove City Council, came across a group in his ward last week.
He said he believed the city was being targeted because of its green credentials.
Councillor Fitch said: “I think people should only buy from reputable firms that advertise locally, perhaps in local newspapers, and ignore those going door to door as they are likely to be exploited.
“They can be intimidating and some are nothing but liars and conmen.”
Coun Fitch said he felt the firms were trying to get as much business as possible to take advantage of Government subsidies for the work.
He said: “I think it’s partly the green city credentials but I’m also conscious that national grants are running out.
“What they are saying about council tax is simply not true and I urge people to be aware.”
Cold caller advice
A council spokeswoman said: “Although there is no indication of any offence having been committed, people have been concerned about traders calling unannounced in the evening and without any identification.
“The advice from trading standards is to always avoid using a business that has cold called on the doorstep and instead use a trader who has been vetted and is a member of an approved trader scheme such as Buy With Confidence.”
She added those interested in insulating their homes could sign up to its Warm Homes Schemes.
Working with Climate Energy and EDF Energy, all improvements are carried out by approved installers.
Figures from the national Energy Saving Trust show installing loft and cavity wall insulation can save almost £250 on heating bills a year.
For more detail about the Warmer Homes Scheme call 0800 048 0727.
Those with concerns about cold callers can call the Consumer Advice Line on 08454 04 05 06.
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Comments(6)
ruberducker
says...
4:47pm Fri 12 Oct 12
Maxwell's Ghost
says...
5:43pm Fri 12 Oct 12
Avoid anyone who has a 'target' to meet.
Any eco business is the 21st century equivalent of the old double glazing sales reps knocking at your door.
Bob_The_Ferret
says...
6:14pm Fri 12 Oct 12
http://www.theargus.
co.uk/news/9982629.E
co_street_lights_set
_for_Brighton_and_Ho
ve_trial/?ref=la
HJarrs
says...
10:23pm Fri 12 Oct 12
Major environmental changes need to be thought through for each property properly and there are reputable companies in B&H that compitently carry out this work. Anyone thinking of carrying out changes to their house should check out the eco-open houses event coming up in the next couple of weeks;
http://www.ecoopenho
uses.org/
I have received leaflets before trying to sell (poor quality no doubt) solar water heating on the basis that the Russians will turn off the supply at any time and I am being chased for loft insualtion despite having a highly insulated house.
NickBrt
says...
10:34pm Fri 12 Oct 12
Terry K says...
4:08pm Fri 12 Oct 12