FIFE Council Housing and Building Services have received a complaint from a member of the public regarding bogus calls.

Men claiming to be officers from Fife Council’s Housing Services have attempted to enter a tenant’s home to check their heating system for repair or replacement.

Tenants throughout the Cowdenbeath-Lochgelly area should be on their guard against these sort of people.

Senior Housing Manager, Alan Russell is reminding tenants to always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to.

He said: “Our officers should carry photo identity cards at all times.

"However, if you are not sure, advise the caller you are going to check they are a genuine caller, lock the door and call Fife Council on 01592 583141 to verify their identity."

Following this incident, Trading Standards are reminding people to remain vigilant to doorstep crime.

The two main types of doorstep criminal are: Bogus callers trying to get into your home or obtain personal details by pretending to be someone they’re not, including council staff, charity collectors, meter readers and police officers.

In reality, they are criminals trying to steal money and valuables.

Rogue traders usually cold-call, claiming to be workers offering to sell services, make repairs or carry out work on your house, garden or driveway. They usually charge inflated prices for shoddy or unnecessary work.

Dawn Adamson, Service Manager explained: “The majority of people who knock at your door are likely to be genuine, however, be aware that some may be rogues.

"If you have any concerns about an unexpected caller at your door, do not open it. Report any suspicions to Police Scotland on 101 or Fife Trading Standards on 01592 583141.”If you need the services of a tradesperson, use Fife Council’s Trusted Trader scheme.

"With members from various trades across the home improvement sector, a condition of membership is not to cold call. Search previous customer feedback online before employing one of the scheme members".