A COUNCIL is warning residents to ignore a letter from a fake housing standards officer.

Essex County Council issued the warning on Twitter, posting a photo of a letter sent to residents offering free home insulation.

The letter says: "Essex County Council's government backed scheme is offering all Essex residents free cavity wall and loft insulation, regardless of financial situation.

"Homeowners and private tenants in the Essex area are entitled to this fantastic free offer, regardless of income, savings or if any benefits are claimed. "Herts Essex Energy Partnership energy advisors will be in your neighbourhood over the next few days to explain the benefits of insulating your home and arrange a date for a free no obligation survey."

The council said the letter was fake.

They Tweeted: "Beware of letters and salespeople claiming to offer free home insulation from ECC.

"We have no such service and did not send these letters. We do not run a scheme offering free insulation, have not sent a letter and are not visiting homes."

Liz Webb, from Trading Standards, said they are aware of the incident.

She said: "[We are aware] there are fraudulent individuals purporting to be able to assist in make your home warmer with free loft and cavity wall insulation but this is simply not the case.

"It is important to exercise caution when someone calls you offering to do work, even if they present themselves as experts in the field.

“Never invite cold callers into your home. If you think that your solar panel system needs maintenance, repair or upgrade our advice is to use the help and guidance offered by MCS to find a reputable company.”

For genuine advice visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk or www.colchester.gov.uk/savingenergy