Don’t Get Scammed by Foam Cowboys!
Spray foam insulation might have promised energy savings and a snug loft, but for thousands of UK homeowners, it’s turned into a financial trap—and rogue traders are making the crisis worse.
At SFACUK, we hear from victims of shady installers every day. Whether it's overpriced removal, botched applications, or completely false mortgage claims, these “foam cowboys” are riding roughshod over homeowners. So how do you spot one before they gallop off with your money?
Let’s break down the red flags:
๐ฉ 1. “We Can Remove It Without a Survey”
This is your first warning bell. Any professional company will insist on a survey before quoting or starting work. If someone’s offering to “rip it out today” for a flat fee—run. They’re cutting corners that could cost you thousands.
โ What to do: Ask for a written survey, proof of insurance, and a formal quote.
๐ฉ 2. “It’s All the Banks’ Fault – We Can Bypass It”
Rogue traders love blaming mortgage lenders for your situation, then pitching their service as your only hope. The truth? Every case is different—and some foam can be left alone. High-pressure tactics that play on your fear are a huge red flag.
โ What to do: Get free, impartial advice from SFACUK before agreeing to anything.
๐ฉ 3. “We Work with the Government”
Unless they can provide official credentials, this is often total nonsense. We've seen fake logos, forged documents, and copycat websites. Always verify who you're dealing with.
โ What to do: Search the company name online + "scam" or "reviews", and check Trustpilot or Companies House.
๐ฉ 4. No Website, No Reviews, No Trace
A “trader” who only operates via Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, has no business website, and can’t show you previous jobs? That’s not a business—it’s a risk.
โ What to do: Only use recommended, reputable firms with clear online presence and verifiable customer testimonials.
๐ฉ 5. The Quote is Too Good to Be True
Proper spray foam removal and reinstatement is specialist work. If someone is charging £1,000 and claiming they’ll be done in a day, they’re likely skipping safety measures—or not qualified at all.
โ What to do: Always get multiple quotes, and question low prices that don’t make sense.
๐งพ Bonus Red Flag: “Don’t Worry About the Mortgage – Just Tell Them It’s Gone”
One homeowner told us a rogue trader advised them to lie to their surveyor about the foam being removed. Never put yourself in a legally risky situation to cover someone else’s shady work.
โ The Bottom Line:
If you’ve got spray foam in your home, the stakes are too high to trust anyone who turns up with a ladder and a lanyard. Rogue traders can leave you worse off than when you started—damaged timbers, no mortgage, and no recourse.
That’s why we’re here.
At the Spray Foam Advice Centre, our advice is always
free, impartial, and based on real RICS surveyor guidance. We’ll help you:
โ๏ธ Understand your options
โ๏ธ Avoid rogue traders
โ๏ธ Get your property sale or mortgage moving again
๏ปฟ
๐ Need help? Just ask.
Call us on 0345 850 0445 or visit www.sfacuk.org
#SFACUK #SprayFoamRemoval #HomeownerHelp #PropertyAdvice #AvoidTheScam
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