Published on:
26
June 2012
Owner occupiers in Clackmannanshire are entitled to be considered for free loft and cavity wall insulation under the Scottish Government 's Universal Home insulation Scheme.
This scheme is part of the Council's ongoing commitment towards the promotion of energy conservation and efficiency.
The Council have appointed Carillion Energy Services to carry out local assessments and installations on their behalf. All Carillion employees carry photographic identification. If you wish to check this identification then you should call 01259 450000 prior to admitting them into your home.
It should be noted that other companies who are offering free or subsidised insulation are not currently supported nor authorised to carry out inspections on behalf of the council. Trading Standards legislation means that consumers who are cold-called generally have a seven-day period in which to cancel a contract. Doorstep sellers are required to give consumers a notice confirming their cancellation rights and commit a criminal offence if they fail to do so.
Brian Wilson Trading Standards Officer with Clackmannanshire and Stirling Joint Trading Standards Service advises consumers who buy from doorstep sellers:
* to take control - you ask the questions
* don't sign on the spot - take time to think and shop around
* don't buy on impulse even if you're given a so-called 'once in a lifetime offer' - you won't know whether it's a good price unless you shop around
* don't get drawn into conversation about family or interests - this is a business transaction not a social call
* you don't owe the salesperson anything - if you don't want to buy, refuse firmly
* look for the OFT Approved code logo of the Direct Selling Association.
Should you engage in a contract with another supplier and experience any problems than contact the Consumer Advice Centre operated by Trading Standards on 0845 277 7000.
Should you be uncertain about someone who arrives at your door unannounced to discuss insulation you should firstly refuse any entry to your home and thereafter contact the Council's Home Energy Strategy Officer on 01259 450000 for advice and guidance.
As with any cold callers Trading Standards ask that local residents where possible note descriptions of the individuals, their vehicles (with registration numbers where it is safe to obtain them) and the "flyers".
Should you wish to arrange an appointment for a Carillion assessor to check out your home for free insulation, you should call 0800 512 012 where a trained energy assessor will take down your details and set up a suitable appointment