Tenants warned of dangers following double glazing scam

Police said a man called at a house purporting to represent the Housing Executive and claiming he was there to measure up for double glazing.

The incident which happened last Thursday December 17 prompted both police and the Executive to urge tenants to be extra vigilant.

Lorraine Campbell, the executive’s South Area Manager, said: “Tenants should be extra vigilant as bogus callers are on the increase and theft is usually their aim. These bogus callers will frequently claim to be from a public body such as the Housing Executive or Water Service, or a contractor.

“The Housing Executive has not yet begun to survey properties for double glazing and we will write to tenants when this is going to take place. We would urge residents not to allow anyone to enter their home without proper identification.”

Inspector Keith Jamieson, the PSNI’s Dungannon Sector commander, said that any resident approached by strangers should ask for identification before allowing access to their properties.

“We also recommend that residents make use of the QuickCheck facility. This is a 24-hour telephone service in which residents can speak to an operator who can then check with the organisation callers claim to represent. The number to call is 0800 013 2290. Calls from landlines are usually free.”

Meanwhile, suspicious callers should be reported to police on 0845 600 8000.