Energy Performance Scams By Trading Standards

30th May 2024

There has been a recent increase in scam letters and leaflets which say that a property's 'energy performance rating' is highly inefficient and offer a free energy assessment.

They say that energy efficiency measures such as insulation, solar panels, heat pumps and heating upgrades are available for free to local residents through government grants if they suffer from a range of medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, mobility issues, cancer, cardiac conditions or even high cholesterol.

The letters include a stamp saying 'Trading Standards Approved' and in some cases mention the local council and the ECO4 scheme.

Residents are asked to call an 0800 number or to email their contact details 'to book a free energy assessment'.

These letters are usually designed to collect data and generate leads for companies who may go on to cold call you and provide misleading information about energy efficiency products and available grants. You may be told that you are eligible to receive funding, but be asked to pay a deposit or take out a loan. Details are included from the home's Energy Performance Certificate and the letter claims that ECO4 funding is available to individuals with common health conditions.

One resident in Dumfries & Galloway received a similar letter saying that their home had an 'energy performance rating' of F/G. The property's genuine energy efficiency rating is currently at band C with no potential improvements suggested.

Some of these letters use the term 'Energy Performance Rating'. Homes in Scotland are subject to Energy Performance Certificates which give an Energy Efficiency Rating.

How to Avoid

If you receive a similar letter or cold call, double check your home's energy performance before agreeing to have a survey carried out or purchasing any energy efficiency measures. Scottish homeowners can find the Energy Performance Certificate for their property via the Scottish Energy Performance Certificate Register at www.scottishepcregister.org.uk

Many councils do offer funding and grants for energy products to eligible households. If a letter, email or cold caller says that you are eligible for a grant or funding for energy efficiency improvements in your home, such as new boilers, insulation, heating or windows, always verify that their offer is valid before agreeing to any deal.
You can do this by calling Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282 or visiting www.homeenergyscotland.org - they will be able to tell you about any funding available in your area. They also offer free and impartial information about energy saving measures.

Find Out More
Scottish Energy Performance Certificate Register: www.scottishepcregister.org.uk
Home Energy Scotland: www.homeenergyscotland.org
Trading Standards Scotland website: www.tsscot.co.uk/priority-areas/energy-marketing-scams