HAMPSHIRE Trading Standards officers are warning that bogus traders are phoning residents in the New Forest area claiming to be from Trading Standards and offering to inspect loft spaces to see if the householder will qualify for free loft insulation.

Trading Standards does not offer this service so residents should be cautious and report incidents urgently. Consumers are advised not to agree to work that is instigated by a cold call or via a leaflet drop.

Residents should get at least three written quotations from reputable businesses or traders who are either members of the Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Buy With Confidence Scheme or a recognised trade association.

Members of the Buy With Confidence scheme are fully audited to ensure their trading practices are legal, honest and fair. Members have been checked for compliance with consumer protection laws. Details on 01962 833620, buy.with.confidence@hants.gov.uk or at buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Traders who agree work at the home of an individual or at a place other than their usual business|premises are required by law to provide consumers with a Notice of Right to Cancel, which gives consumers a seven-day cooling off period.

Work should not start until this period has ended, unless written agreement is obtained from that consumer.

Further information about the eligibility criteria for assistance with funding for loft and/or cavity wall insulation can be obtained from the Energy Saving Trust on 0300 123 1234 or contact your own energy supplier to see what offers they currently have available.

If anyone has any information about traders who are cold calling or requires any advice on doorstep crime they can contact Hampshire County Council's Quick Response Team on 01962 833666 (Monday–Friday 0900hrs to 1700hrs). Outside these hours contact Hampshire Police on 101 or dial 999 if you feel threatened or intimidated.