I have been made aware of a number of companies across the UK that have been misrepresenting the Green Deal.

Unfortunately, some companies have been hijacking the deal and using it as a vehicle for fraud. They are committing a criminal offence by taking payments from £299-£399 for Green Deal assessments that never materialise.

Under the Government’s Green Deal you can make energy-saving improvements to your home or business without having to pay all the costs up front.

Energy-saving improvements include:
• insulation – e.g. loft or cavity wall insulation
• heating
• draught-proofing
• double glazing
• renewable energy technologies – e.g. solar panels or wind turbines

All Green Deal organizations must be authorized, and carry the quality mark as seen here.

Following information I have received from a resident living in Exeter, I have asked Trading Standards to look into one company charging £299 for an assessment. The Company concerned do not appear to be authorised, are not currently displaying the Green Deal quality mark and have not returned to undertake an assessment since taking the £299 payment in April 2013.

If you have any concerns about a Green Deal Company you can check whether they are an authorised organisation by telephoning the Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234.