Fife couple lose £4000 in roof repair scam as new warning issued
Fife residents have been warned to be on their guard after figures revealed that people across Scotland reported losing £276,731 to energy scams in the 12 months up to April.
Trading Standards Scotland has urged households to beware of scammers posing as energy companies, councils or government-backed schemes, after Scots lost more than £5000 a week to energy scams between April 2025 and April 2026.
As pressure on household budgets grows ahead of Christmas, TSS has launched its Take Control of the Small Things campaign to help people protect themselves.
A Fife couple paid almost £4000 after being told their roof was at risk of rotting unless urgent work was carried out. The pair had been cold called by a woman who claimed her firm was carrying out loft insulation checks on behalf of the Scottish Government.
Their son later discovered that workers had punched holes through the roof and removed tiles to create vents. No new insulation had been fitted and no anti-mould treatment applied. The couple are still waiting for a refund.
Police Scotland has also urged people to think twice before handing over money or personal information to anyone claiming to be from a trusted organisation.
The warning comes as a new consumer watchdog poll found that 48 per cent of Scots are worried about heating their homes and affording their energy bills this winter, while a third have been approached with offers of cheap or free energy-saving products in the past 12 months.
Councillor Maureen Chalmers, chair of Trading Standards Scotland’s governance board, said: “It is deeply concerning that Scots are losing more than £5000 a week to energy scams, and we know the true figure is likely to be much higher because many cases go unreported.
“With almost half of Scots worried about affording their energy bills this winter, scammers know there are people looking for ways to cut costs and make their homes more efficient. We urge people not to deal with cold callers and never to feel pressured into making a decision on the spot.”
Detective Chief Inspector Alasdair Penny said: “Fraud, in any form, is a despicable and cowardly crime with, often anonymous, criminals targeting the most vulnerable people in our communities.
“Criminals can pretend to be someone you trust such as your bank, the police, utility provider or government organisation. They may contact you and ask you to move money, share personal information or act quickly. They may have some of your personal details.
“Our advice is clear and the public should be aware that a telephone call, email or text may not be from the person or organisation it appears to come from.
“Remember you have the right to stop and think before parting with your money or information. It could keep you safe.
"If you ever have any concerns and think you may have been a victim of fraud, you should contact your bank immediately and Police via 101.”
For advice or to report a suspected scam, visit Advice Direct Scotland or call 0808 164 6000.