Homeowners are being approached by people claiming to be from the Home Insulation Scheme and charging them for work they could receive for free.
The warning comes after residents were encouraged to take advantage of a Scottish Government initiative that could see their loft insulation topped-up at no cost.
Around 16,500 Marr households could benefit under the Home Insulation Scheme, which aims to reach 90,000 households across Scotland.
Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Social Work and Housing Committee Councillor Gurudeo Saluja said: “It is very disappointing to hear that people are trying to deceive residents into paying for work they may be eligible to receive for free under the Home Insulation Scheme.”
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Vice chairman Councillor Carl Nelson added: “Letters were sent to all householders in the Marr area recently so residents will know when to expect a visit from a home energy assessor.
“The assessors will be easy to identify – they will be wearing a red home insulation scheme uniform and carrying an ID card which you can inspect if necessary.
“If there is any doubt about your visit please call the Energy Saving Scotland Advice Centre on 0800 512 012.”
Following an initial assessment, eligible properties with a certain level of insulation could see loft insulation topped up at no cost to the householder and new loft insulation and/or cavity wall insulation installed at special negotiated rates.
Householders need to already have between 60mm and 160mm of insulation in their homes to receive a top up for free. Under the Home Insulation Scheme, this would be boosted to a maximum of 270mm.
The initiative is being brought forward in the Marr area by Aberdeenshire Council in conjunction with the Energy Saving Trust and the Scottish Government.
Home Energy Assessors are now out and about in person across Marr to provide face-to-face advice about the initiative and to arrange appointments for home surveys.
Home Energy Assessors will also be visiting Aberdeenshire Council tenants to offer energy efficiency advice and benefits checks free of charge.
Tenants will not receive home insulation through the Home Insulation Scheme, as the council is arranging this separately.
For more information, please contact the Energy Saving Scotland Advice Centre on 0800 512 012 or visit: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland/
(GK/KMcA)
