Householders are being advised to take care when cold called by companies offering insulation.

Unscrupulous companies are contacting residents, usually by telephone, offering spray foam loft insulation scams at excessive prices. They also offer other services such as jet-washing roof tiles or over-priced ventilation systems.

Some scammers are falsely claiming that they are working with local councils to offer all types of insulation and the work could be covered by grant schemes.

A spokesperson for the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, said: “Residents are urged to avoid becoming a victim of these scams by simply not engaging with any cold callers, whether on the telephone or at the door. Don’t feel pressured to proceed with works before checking whether it is genuinely required.  Ask friends or family to recommend a company that would carry out the work for you and always obtain more than one quotation for works on your home.

“We urge anyone concerned about the activity of a cold caller is urged to contact the Citizens Advice Helpline on 0808 223 1133 or Action Fraud UK on 0300 123 2040.”

If you are interested in having insulation added to your property, Green Homes Grants are available to eligible households through your local council.  Anyone applying would be given a unique reference number that would be quoted in all contact.

Alternatively insulation may be available through Lincs 4 Warmer Homes which is a partnership of local authorities in Greater Lincolnshire offering energy efficiency improvements. For more details and to check eligibility, see https://bit.ly/3w4Ws45 or contact 01472 326 434.