We are seeing a worrying increase in cases of unscrupulous individuals falsely claiming to be specialists in spray foam insulation removal, or posing as representatives of trusted bodies. Their objective is to persuade homeowners to carry out unnecessary removal, often at significant expense.

Drawing on our guidance regarding spray foam removal, here is some advice on how you can protect yourself.

Why Removal is Rarely Necessary

• Spray foam insulation is a highly effective way to improve the energy efficiency of homes, provided the installation is done correctly, in line with manufacturers’ instructions and by a registered, professional installer.
• Most properties that have had spray foam installed properly do not have problems and removal is unnecessary. Reports of moisture, rot, or structural issues are generally very rare when all pre‐installation assessments have been carried out and post‑installation documentation is in order.
• Mortgage lenders typically assess each property on its own merits. If the contractor was registered, the spray foam meets required standards, and the documentation exists, lenders should accept the installation without issue.

Common Tactics Used by Rogue Traders

• Contacting homeowners unexpectedly—via door-to-door, phone calls or mail shots, claiming that the spray foam must be removed urgently.
• Claiming false associations with reputable trade bodies or using mis‐leading information about grants or regulations.
• Pressuring for quick decisions, often quoting high costs and promising risks if removal is not done immediately.
• Presenting fake or exaggerated paperwork or using scare tactics around reselling or mortgage approval to scare homeowners into agreeing.
• Claiming that the government has banned spray foam.
• Stating that their advice and inspection is certified and that removing the spray foam will make the building mortgageable.

How to Protect Yourself

• Do not feel pressurised in agreeing expensive removal work, as this is generally the last resort and if installation has been carried out correctly should not be necessary.  Rogue traders often try to scare or rush homeowners into removal and demand payment up front.
• Do Not Rush Decisions
• Seek Independent Assessment prior to making any decisions.  If unsure, arrange for a survey by an independent expert to be carried out. A surveyor can inspect whether there are real issues before you agree to anything.
• Check credentials and verify these.  Always ask if the person you are dealing with is registered, qualified and a member of recognised industry bodies, then check these out for yourself.  If someone claims membership of a trade or manufacturer body, check the veracity via their official website or by direct enquiry.  Do not be afraid to take the time necessary to do this and say you will get back to them in due course when you have verified the information provided,

What to Do If You’re Approached

• If you are told that removal is essential, ask for full details of the proposed removal: reasons, evidence, cost, and the credentials of the company and remember removal is usually not necessary.
• Contact us (or other relevant trade body) with these details. We can help verify whether the claim has merit.
• Report any suspicious behaviour or unsolicited offers claiming your spray foam must be removed to relevant consumer protection authorities.

Homeowners deserve accurate information and honest advice—not coercion. If you think you’re being targeted by a rogue trader, you are not alone—reach out, ask questions, and insist on proof. Prevention is far cheaper and safer than unnecessary removal.

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