South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 04/09/2012

Over the last month we have received three reports from residents who have been targeted by callers attempting to gain entry to their homes.

The cold callers claim that the regulations for thickness of loft insulation have changed and that their product may not be up to standard and they need to come in and check it.

During one incident, a woman caller attempted to barge past an elderly householder to get into her house and in another incident the bogus callers put their foot in the door even when it was made clear that the resident was not interested. More recent reports indicate a man working with one or two women who are described as his trainees.

Trading Standards officer Neil Derrick said: “Thankfully these attempts to gain access to these properties have been unsuccessful but we are advising residents to be vigilant. Just because someone calls at your door claiming to be an official, does not always mean they are genuine and ID badges can be faked. We are advising residents in Hanham, Bradley Stoke and Little Stoke where these incidents have taken place to exercise caution if someone calls at your door who you are not expecting. If you are unsure, don’t answer the door.”

Officers are working closely with Avon and Somerset Constabulary to target bogus callers and the police have reiterated advice from the force’s Doorstep Code:

• Don’t open the door without using the Doorstep Code
• Observe first – always look through a window or door viewer
• Only open the door after connecting a chain or limiter
• Refuse entry if you are not satisfied
• Switch on outside lights when it’s dark to see who’s there
• Think ‘thief’ – ask to see an identity card and check it closely
• Ensure strangers are not left alone in your home
• Protect yourself – if you are worried ring the police.

South Gloucestershire Community Safety Inspector Gerry Treacy added: “Our message is always if your are unsure about a caller, don’t open the door. Make sure doors and windows are secure when you are in the garden or another room, and when you answer the door, so no one can get in while you’re busy elsewhere. Anyone with any information about doorstep crime is asked to contact us through www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact  or by calling 101. There’s more home security advice on our website.”

Anyone with information about this type of approach should call the police on 101 or contact Trading Standards on 08454 04 05 06.