Fake Insulation Grant Scams at the Doorstep
How doorstep callers pose as government-funded insulation scheme representatives, collecting upfront fees or fitting substandard insulation for grants that do not apply.
Part of: Fake Insulation Grant Scams
Last reviewed: 8 June 2026
Government-funded home insulation schemes — such as the ECO scheme in the UK — provide free or subsidised insulation to eligible households. Doorstep scammers exploit public awareness of these schemes by arriving at the door claiming the property qualifies for free insulation, then either collecting an upfront contribution that is not required, or installing poor-quality insulation that fails to meet scheme standards and is never eligible for the grant it was supposedly funded by.
The doorstep approach adds pressure. A visitor is present, the offer seems time-limited, and the perceived legitimacy of a government scheme name creates false reassurance.
How this scam works on doorstep
A caller arrives claiming the property has been identified as eligible for government-funded insulation under a named scheme. An immediate survey is conducted — often a cursory look at the loft or cavity wall — and the 'qualified' caller confirms the home qualifies. An upfront contribution is requested, either framed as a co-payment or as a temporary bond that will be returned.
Work may be arranged and substandard insulation installed — sometimes using non-compliant materials. The grant either does not materialise because the installation fails official standards, or the scheme cited does not cover the property's circumstances. Removal of defective insulation is itself a significant cost.
Common red flags
- Unsolicited caller claims your property qualifies for a named government insulation grant
- Any upfront payment is requested — genuine government schemes are free at the point of service for eligible households
- Caller discourages you from verifying eligibility through official channels before agreeing
- Contractor cannot demonstrate accreditation from TrustMark or an equivalent body
- Urgency is created by claiming the grant allocation for your area is almost exhausted
How to protect yourself
- Verify eligibility for any named government insulation scheme directly through official government channels
- Genuine government-funded insulation schemes do not require upfront consumer payments for eligible households
- Only use TrustMark-registered or equivalent accredited installers for insulation work
- Obtain written details of the specific scheme name and reference number for independent verification
- Do not sign any agreement or make any payment on the day of an unsolicited doorstep visit
How to report it
- Report to Trading Standards through Citizens Advice (UK)
- Report to Action Fraud (UK) at actionfraud.police.uk if payment was made under false pretences
- Report to Ofgem (UK) if the caller falsely referenced a regulated scheme
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out if I qualify for a genuine insulation grant?
In the UK, the Energy Saving Trust website and your local council can confirm eligibility for schemes such as ECO4. Apply through official channels or contact your energy supplier directly. No genuine scheme requires an upfront payment from eligible households.