Growing reports of spray foam insulation scams in Orpington and Beckenham have led Bromley Trading Standards to warn residents to stay vigilant and say no to cold callers. Spray foam insulation scams often involve unsolicited phone calls — which have not been requested by the resident — with misleading claims about the insulation. This can then even lead to uninvited visits that are designed to pressure residents into unnecessary, costly, and sometimes harmful work. Some of the reports handled by Bromley's Trading Standards team include: Case 1: An attempted upsell from spray foam removal to major roof works, exceeding £20,000. Trading Standards intervened before any payment was made. Case 2: £9,000 paid for spray foam removal (work completed in July; reported in November). Case 3: A £7,000 deposit for spray foam removal and alleged solar panel protection was returned when the family cancelled, with the help of Trading Standards. Case 4: £8,500 charged for spray foam removal and installation of new rock wool insulation.
There are two common approaches to spray foam insulation scams: Cold calls offering a "survey" or "inspection" of loft insulation, followed by high pressure sales tactics encouraging installation of spray foam insulation at inflated prices. Cold calls claiming that a resident's existing spray foam insulation is dangerous, unsellable, or needs immediate removal; but this is designed to create fear and secure payment.
Some fraudsters also use solar panel servicing as a way to gain access to the property before attempting to upsell work. These practices often result in poor quality installations, unnecessary removal work, or serious property damage. Protect yourself: Hang up immediately if you receive any unsolicited call about insulation or home improvements. If someone arrives unexpectedly, or for an appointment you felt pressured into, decline and do not engage. Tell someone you trust before any appointment takes place, especially if asked to keep it private. Remember: for any agreed home‑improvement work, residents must be given a 14‑day cooling‑off period, including written cancellation rights. If considering insulation, research the topic thoroughly and obtain several quotes from trusted installers. Consult reputable, independent guidance before making decisions.
Further information on spray foam insulation:
Trading Standards and the Energy Saving Trust recommend asking installers: How much experience do you have with loft insulation? Can you provide references or examples of previous work? What guarantees or warranties do you offer? Will ventilation needs be assessed? Will you manage any building regulations or certifications?
Be cautious of installers who: Pressure you to make a quick decision Offer unusually low quotes with no explanation Refuse to provide references or certification Fail to provide written contracts or breakdowns of costs
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