Beware of home insulation scheme scams |
19th February, 2010 |
Federal Member for Wide Bay, Warren Truss has alerted local residents to be wary of a possible new scam involving the Rudd Labor Government’s bungled home insulation scheme.
“My office has been contacted by a resident who complained of receiving an unsolicited visit from a person who claimed to be authorised by the government to check roof insulation,” Mr Truss said.
“He allegedly gave the impression that he was sent by the Government to undertake repairs and rectify problems with defective insulation and faulty installation. He indicated there may or may not be a charge for any work done.
“I am aware of a range of high pressure sales tactics that have been used under the guise of the flawed insulation program. But people should only allow properly accredited tradespeople who have been invited or who have an appointment, into their homes.”
Mr Truss confirmed that the Government is conducting spot audits of insulation in addition to audits requested by homeowners. However home owners chosen for an audit will receive a letter to advise them of the audit and they will contacted by telephone to arrange a time for the inspection.
“It is very important to carefully check the credentials of installers and anyone asking to enter your home. Be very wary of unsolicited telephone and house calls and report suspicious activity to the Office of Fair Trading on 13 13 04 or the police,” Mr Truss said.
“Roof insulation can be very dangerous if it is not installed correctly,” Mr Truss said.
The Government estimates that there are at least 1,000 home roofs that have been electrified by faulty installation of foil insulation.
Four people have died of electrocution and there have been more than 100 fires caused by insulation since the Rudd Labor Government rolled out its failed home insulation scheme.
“If you have fitted foil insulation under the scheme please call 131 792 to arrange for an inspection to ensure that it has been installed correctly.”
It has been estimated that up to 40% of homes have been fitted with insulation that is sub-standard and ineffective under the $3.7 billion scheme.
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