RESIDENTS living in Midlothian have been warned of three bogus traders who are thought to be operating around the area.
The warning came from Midlothian Council’s Trading Standards team after a firm contacted a council tenant by telephone, claiming to be from a council-appointed contractor.
The tenant was asked to send photos of his home and his availability to a WhatsApp number associated with a known scam.
During the call, compensation payments for repairs were mentioned. However, no contractor had been appointed by the council.
There were also reports of two people in high-visibility jackets cold-calling homes on Forrester’s Close in Bonnyrigg, asking to enter the property and take meter readings.
When asked, they did not have IDs. Residents of the area are being reminded to never let cold callers into their homes without IDs.
Danderhall Council tenants who are having external wall insulation fitted have also been informed that phone calls have been made requesting payment for insurance after the work is completed.
The council has also reminded tenants that these calls do not originate from them, and that tenants will never be asked to pay for work organised by the council on their homes.
Anyone contacted by someone claiming to be from the council and asking for money should get the person’s name, title, and the contact details of the service they say they are from.
If it seems suspicious, you should always check with the council service before making any payments.
Anyone with questions about the authenticity of individuals contacting them about a service or business are encouraged to contact the Trading Standards department at 0131 271 3559 or via email at TradingStandards@midlothian.gov.uk.
