Merlin warns residents to beware bogus callers

Merlin Housing Society is warning residents to beware bogus callers after a distraction burglary in Kingswood.

Last week two men tricked their way into a resident’s home after claiming to be from the housing society. The pair claimed that they needed to check water pressure in the property. While one of them distracted the resident, the other searched the property for money.

Now Merlin is reminding residents to always check they know who they are letting into their home.

Merlin Works Manager Martin Daymond said: “You should always ask to see someone’s identity before letting them into your home. If you are in doubt, don’t let them in. All Merlin staff and those of our contractors carry identification cards and will be happy to wait while you check their details.

“If you have any doubts, do not let them in. You can call our repairs line, on 0800 953 0340 to check a caller’s details. If the visit is outside of office hours and no-one is available to verify them, then tell them it is inconvenient and that you will rearrange the visit.”