Spray Foam Removal Scams & Cold Callers: Real Tactics, Red Flags, and How to Protect Yourself
With the growing awareness that spray foam insulation can cause mortgage problems, thousands of UK homeowners are now seeking removal. But unfortunately, not all companies offering this service are legitimate, and many homeowners are falling victim to cold-caller scams and substandard work.
In this guide, we'll show you:
- Real tactics used by cold callers and rogue traders
- What local councils and Trading Standards are warning about
- How Countrywide Insulation protects you with a no-pressure, fully insured, and accredited service
The Rise of Spray Foam Removal Scams
Spray foam insulation, once promoted for energy efficiency, is now a major obstacle for mortgage approvals. As a result, the demand for removal has surged, and scammers have moved in fast.
Numerous UK councils have issued formal warnings, including:
The scams range from misleading cold calls to fake certification, and in many cases, homeowners are left with:
- Unsafe or incomplete removal
- Invalid or worthless paperwork
- Roof damage and zero recourse
How These Scams Work: Real Cold Caller Tactics
We've spoken to customers across the UK who shared real examples of how cold callers tried to pressure them into unnecessary or overpriced spray foam removal jobs. Here are the common tactics:
1. "We're Working With Your Council or Energy Provider"
This is false. No local authority is partnering with removal firms. Councils have made it clear that these claims are part of the scam.
2. "You Need Urgent Removal to Get a Mortgage"
While it's true that lenders often require removal, they also require it to be done professionally, and backed by documentation. These callers don't mention that part, leaving homeowners at risk of mortgage delays even after paying.
3. "We Can Issue a Certificate Immediately"
Proper certification involves:
- Moisture testing
- Timber assessment
- Documentation and photos
A cold caller offering a "certificate" without an inspection is likely offering useless paperwork that won't satisfy a lender
What the Authorities Are Saying
"We've had multiple complaints from residents targeted by companies warning they won't be able to sell or mortgage their homes without spray foam removal. These claims are not always accurate and can be used to pressure people into expensive contracts."
— South Gloucestershire Council
"Our advice is simple: never agree to work from someone who cold calls. Ask for ID, credentials, and give yourself time to check them properly."
— Warwickshire Trading Standards
How to Protect Yourself — and Choose a Trusted Company
At Countrywide Insulation, we've spent years cleaning up after rogue traders. Our team is focused on providing safe, legitimate, and mortgage-compliant spray foam removal, without pressure or misleading claims.
Here's how we do things differently:
1. No Cold Calls. No Pressure.
We never cold call, pressure you into a decision, or mislead you about mortgage requirements. Instead, we offer:
- Free, no-obligation inspections
- Honest advice based on your home's condition
- Transparent pricing and clear next steps
2. Full Certification — Not Fake Paperwork
All our work includes:
- Timber moisture testing
- Full removal report and photographic evidence
- A signed certificate accepted by lenders and surveyors
This documentation is what actually moves mortgage applications forward.
3. Fully Insured, Licensed & Waste-Compliant
We are:
- Fully insured, including for roofing and confined space work
- A registered waste carrier, licensed by the Environment Agency
- Health & safety compliant with proper disposal, access, and ventilation procedures
You can learn more about our spray foam removal process here.
Final Thoughts: Don't Get Pressured. Get Protected.
Cold caller scams are on the rise, but you don't have to fall for them. With the right team, proper documentation, and safe practices, you can remove spray foam and move forward with confidence.
Countrywide Insulation is here to help — no pressure, no hidden fees, and no false claims.
Speak to our team or book your free property assessment today:
https://countrywideinsulation.co.uk/get-a-quote
Or explore our full spray foam removal service
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