Be wary of ‘rogue’ insulation companies

The local authority urges residents ‘to be on their guard against rogue companies’ folllowing ‘an increasing number of reports that some areas of the district have been targeted’.

“Some of these companies are offering poor customer service, confusing paperwork and negligent work. They can also use cold calling and pushy doorstep sales techniques.”

Horsham District Council would like to make it clear that no scheme connected to the council involves cold calling, in person or by telephone. No payment is required before work has been carried out.

There are genuine insulation grants of varying amounts available to all residents, and the council would encourage residents to insulate their homes before it gets cold again, but ‘people need to be vigilant’.

Andrew Baldwin (Con, Holbrook East and Horsham Town), cabinet member for the Environment at Horsham District Council, said: “Horsham District Council does encourage all residents to have their homes insulated. There are some good deals around and in some instances the insulation may be installed for free.

“As part of its commitment to energy efficiency, the council runs two local insulation schemes with HCL Energy and HeatSeekers but residents can also contact their energy company for insulation grants.”

Both of the local council schemes (with HCL Energy and HeatSeekers) are promoted to residents in the district using mailed letters and always feature the Horsham District Council logo, plus contact details for an officer at the council.

For energy efficiency matters enquiries or to sign up to one of the council’s insulation schemes, call 01403 215281 or email [email protected].

Any suspicious mailings, visitors or telephone calls should be reported immediately to Trading Standards at West Sussex County Council, either by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01243 642124.