Midlothian Council's Trading Standards team has issued a warning to local consumers to be on their guard for representatives from companies canvassing for solar panels and energy saving installation.
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There have been a number of recent reports across Scotland of consumers being cold called by telephone or receiving unsolicited home visits from company representatives offering the installation of solar panels or other energy saving devices. These representatives apply pressure on consumers to sign an expensive contract on the day, before the consumer has time to compare prices or consider alternative suppliers.
Cllr Russell Imrie, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Trading Standards, said: "I want to warn Midlothian consumers to be on their guard for unscrupulous companies like these. Be sure never to let yourself be pressured into signing an expensive contract without adequate information. You'll be given your cancellation rights but may then be persuaded to sign for quick installation. Don't, as you may be liable to pay for its removal if you do cancel."
Cllr Imrie continued: "If you receive a cold call or an unsolicited home visit regarding solar panel installation, please let our Trading Standards team know by phoning 0131 271 3549."
The Council's Trading Standards team is also reminding consumers who are interested in acquiring a household solar energy system that in order for consumers to benefit from guaranteed payments from the Feed In Tariff (FIT) Scheme on systems installed after 1 April 2010, these systems must have been installed by a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) approved installer.
- Further information is available from Midlothian Council Trading Standards team on 0131 271 3549 or by emailing tradingstandards@midlothian.gov.uk
- Free and impartial advice on how to save energy can be found on the Energy Saving Trust website at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
