Is a doorstep solar panel or cavity wall insulation quote a scam?
Unsolicited doorstep quotes for home improvements often use high-pressure selling, inflated prices, or upfront deposits that disappear. Always get multiple written quotes and check contractor credentials.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Doorstep home improvement fraud targets homeowners, particularly older residents, with offers of solar panel installation, cavity wall insulation, driveway resurfacing, or roof repairs — sometimes claiming to be affiliated with a government grant scheme. Tactics include artificially urgent pricing, scare tactics about structural damage, and pressure to sign and pay a large deposit the same day. Once a deposit is paid, work may never begin, be of poor quality, or create more damage than existed. Legitimate tradespeople provide written quotes, do not require full or large upfront payment, are registered with professional bodies, and do not pressure you to decide on the day. Always ask for their business registration, insurance certificate, and check them against your national trade register.
Common red flags
- Salesperson arrives unsolicited and insists the offer is only valid today
- Large deposit required on the day of the quote
- Contractor claims to be carrying out work in your street and has leftover materials
- No written quote, contract, or cooling-off period offered
What to do now
- Take the time to get at least three written quotes from verified tradespeople
- Check contractor registration on your national trade body or consumer protection register
- Never pay more than a small deposit before work begins
- If you already paid and work was not completed, report to trading standards
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a home improvement company is legitimate?
Search the company name on your national trade body register (such as TrustMark or Which Trusted Traders in the UK), check Companies House or equivalent, and read independent reviews on established platforms.