Residents in Ellesmere Port and Neston are urged to be on their guard as rogue traders are offering double-glazing in the area.

Cheshire West and Chester Regulatory Services Team has been made aware of scammers cold calling in the area.

It is understood they are informing householders they are acting on behalf of the council and suggest the resident’s council tax may be reduced if measures to improve energy efficiency, such as upgraded double-glazing, are purchased from them.

The council’s cabinet member for environment, Councillor Karen Shore said: “Cheshire West and Chester Council does not sell double glazing and there is no discount given on council tax for improved energy efficiency.

“We are very concerned that rogue traders may be preying on potentially vulnerable Cheshire West residents and urge everyone to be vigilant and not fall victim to these unscrupulous traders.

“If you hear of anybody in the area making this kind of claim, please report them.

“We always advise residents not to agree to have any work carried out by someone who calls uninvited to their door.

“If you need work carrying out to your property, make sure you shop around, get recommendations from family and friends and obtain at least two written quotations before agreeing for the work to begin.”

Trading Standards are offering the following top tips to avoid residents becoming a victim of the scam:

  • Never agree to have work done by someone calling uninvited at your door
  • If you need work carrying out to your property, make sure you shop around, get two or three written quotations for the cost of the work before agreeing to accept one
  • Check out the trader’s details, ensure that you have a full address and if possible a landline phone number
  • Don’t agree to have work carried out straightaway, take some time to think about it

  • Take recommendations from friends or family who may have recently had work carried out

  • Remember in most circumstances you have a 14-day cooling off period if you agree to work at your home