Lewisham Homes

We are a social housing provider, managing homes on behalf of Lewisham Council

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Bogus callers

Door knockingThis page has information on how to deal with unexpected visitors to your home.

Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But sometimes, people turn up unannounced with the intention of tricking their way into your home to steal your valuables and money.

There are some simple precautions you can take to help ensure you don’t become a victim:

  • Talk to people through the door, rather than opening it when they knock;
  • Ask who they are before opening the door, then keep the door on the chain until you’ve seen their identification;
  • Shut the front door behind any caller you let in so that nobody else can let themselves in
  • If anybody comes to your door for legitimate purposes, they will have an I.D. card from the organisation they represent. Before you even speak to them, ask to see it, and keep the door on the chain while you look it over. If someone claims to be from the Council or Lewisham Homes and you are not sure you can contact us to verify their identification.
  • If you need glasses in order to read the card, close and lock the door before going to get them. Never leave the door open and unattended.

If you suspect a bogus caller has tried to get in your home or targeted someone you know, please contact the police non-emergency telephone number 101.