Bogus caller alert

Following the theft of some vehicle side panels which include Gloucester City Homes signs, we are concerned that these could be used by bogus callers trying to identify themselves as Gloucester City Homes workers.

We would therefore like to remind people of the importance of checking the identity of people calling at your home.

You can't always be sure that people turning up on your doorstep are who they say they are. Most people who call at your home will be genuine.

But sometimes, people turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into the home. They are known as ‘distraction burglars’ or ‘bogus callers’, whose only aim is to get into homes to distract people and steal their money or valuables. You should always be aware when someone you don’t know calls at your door.

Remember: bogus callers can be very convincing and persuasive.

You can reduce your chances of being a victim to bogus callers by doing the following:

fit a door chain and / or viewer (special ones are available for people with deteriorating eyesight).
before opening the door chain it and always lock the back door before answering the front door (some burglars try to get your attention at the front whilst their accomplice gains entry at the back).
check the caller’s identity, for example ask to see their ID card.
make a note of your customer number or repair number from your correspondence. Ask your caller for this number to see if they know it or for your special password if you have agreed one with the organisation the callers claims to represent.
if unsure either contact us or call the Bogus Callers Helpline 0808 1000 777.
if you’re still not sure don’t let them in. Tell them they will have to go away and get their organisation to make an appointment. If they’re genuine – they won’t mind.
remember to take the chain of your door when you lock it again. Your family, friends or emergency services would not be able to get in easily if there is an emergency if you leave the chain, when the door is locked!