Tenants living in council-owned properties are being urged to stay vigilant after reports of cold callers operating in the city.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council has been made aware of companies cold calling residents and claiming to be working with, or for, the city council’s Housing Repairs Team.
It is understood that these companies are trying to make money by convincing residents to take legal action against the council for repair work.
Some tenants are being contacted by the telephone – usually from a number starting with 0161 or 0151 – while others are unknowingly answering their door and inviting bogus callers into their homes.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is now warning residents to be extra careful when answering phones or doors to strangers.
Residents should always ask to see a valid Stoke-on-Trent City Council ID badge and ask for the name of their manager at the city council so they can check the caller is legitimate.
They can also call the Housing Disrepair Team on 01782 235572 or the contact centre on 01782 234234 to check or report unwanted activity.
Councillor Chris Robinson, cabinet member for housing, said: “Bogus callers try to get into your home or get personal details by pretending to be someone they’re not – and this can include council staff.
“These people often target vulnerable residents. We are told that some tenants are getting six or more phone calls, despite telling them they do not want to claim, and are feeling intimidated and pressurised into claiming.
“Please be vigilant. Stop and think before giving away any personal details, do not let anyone into your home if you are not convinced they are genuine and do not sign any paperwork until you are completely sure it is legitimate.
“Our teams from Stoke-on-Trent City Council will not call you from outside the area and are always available at the end of the phone if you have any concerns. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. It is always worth double checking before signing papers you are unsure about.”
To report a repair to the city council visit Reporting repairs | Council Housing Repairs | Stoke-on-Trent.
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