Housing repairs scams

Some residents have reported scammers posing as repair contractors trying to gain access to their homes. 

When you report a repair to us, we will assign one of our approved contractors, either Axis Europe or Wates, to the job.

Occasionally, we may use specialist subcontractors.

When a repair operative visits your home, they will always carry photo ID and provide details of your repair case when requested. 

If the person at your door cannot give you the case reference number, do not let them in. 

If you're unsure, you can call our call centre on 020 8825 5682 to confirm their identity.

Top tips on avoiding repairs scams

If you arranged a repair through the council, you will not be charged.

Always be cautious of anyone asking for money to complete a repair or claiming to work on behalf of Ealing Council without providing details of your repair request or showing valid photo ID.

Claim farming

This is another scam where fake companies encourage residents to make claims for repairs. 

These companies often cold call, drop leaflets, or use social media, claiming to be from the repairs team or on behalf of Ealing Council.

They refuse to provide an authentic company name, and any callback number will be false. 

Personal information is often sold to 'no win, no fee' solicitors for profit, and residents may end up with legal costs even if they withdraw their claim.

Report scams

To report scams, speak to a member of council staff at your local housing hub or seek advice from Citizens Advice before signing any documents. 

You can report scams to:

  • Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133, who will pass on details to Trading Standards
  • Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud, who will give you a crime reference number to give to your bank

Further information

Scam awareness information from the Housing Ombudsman Service