Kirklees Council tenants are being warned to watch out for bogus workmen after what appears, at first glance, to be a council-branded van was seen driving around Huddersfield.

The white Homes and Neighbourhoods van has been reported to police after it was spotted by council staff who identified that the vehicle was not a council van.

Upon closer checking, it was confirmed the van’s Homes and Neighbourhoods branding was slightly different to that used by the council and it had the wrong fleet number.

The sighting has been reported to police who are currently investigating.

Meanwhile, tenants are being reminded that all council housing repair jobs inside their homes are always carried out by appointment only. Tenants will also receive a text reminder on the day of the repair to let them know operatives are coming and they will always show ID before gaining entry to their homes.

External repairs are occasionally carried out without prior notice, but all staff will make themselves known to tenants and have ID. Under no circumstances would any council workman request any money for a repair and tenants are urged to be vigilant for anyone asking for payment.

Naz Parkar, director of homes and neighbourhoods, said: “Keeping our tenants safe is our top priority and we are very concerned to hear a vehicle has been spotted posing as Homes and Neighbourhoods.

“We’d like to remind all our tenants that we would never show up unannounced or ask for money, and if they have any concerns or encounter any suspicious activity to always call us first to check before letting anyone into their home.”

Tenants are asked to call 01484 414886 with any concerns or to report any suspicions.