Solar panel scam alert

MORAY residents are urged to be on the alert to solar panel scams this summer.

The Moray Council trading standards warning comes after one householder was conned into paying £4,000 for replacement inverters for solar panels. In this instance the cheque was cancelled before the money left the account.

There have been reports of Moray householders being targeted by companies offering free solar panel health checks and services, with the letters implying that the warranty on existing inverters has expired and encouraging the resident to contact them to verify the warranty.

Council trading standards manager Karen Sievewright said: "We have also received other reports of traders falsely stating that an inverter must be replaced every five to seven years, attempting to persuade vulnerable consumers to pay thousands of pounds for a new inverter that may not be required."

Householders are advised to be cautious if they receive such a letter.

Ms Sievewright said: "Take a moment to search the name of the company to read their reviews. Be aware that there may be no requirement to have your inverter replaced. Just like any household appliance, if they’re working then there is no need for replacement.

"If you have any concerns about your system, contact your original installer. If that company is no longer trading, contact an MCS-accredited installer that is also a member of a consumer body such as RECC or HIES for further advice. If you feel that their practices are sharp or intimidating, report them to us."

Moray trading standards can be contacted on 0300 123 4561 or by e-mail at tradingstandards@moray.gov.uk.

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