HOMEOWNERS in Ryedale should be wary of unscrupulous salesman taking advantage of a change in the law, say senior council officers.

The warning comes as new EU regulations into the quality of double glazing windows come into force from April 1.

But building control officials say residents should not be pressured into signing a contract before the cut off date.

Senior building control officer Andy Boyce said the regulations meant windows ordered after April 1 had to be of a higher performance glass to reduce heat loss and be more energy efficient.

But consumers should not be duped into thinking the changes will mean a drastic hike in double glazing prices, he warned.

Mr Boyce said: "The law is changing and there is a lot of confusion out there.

"I think people may use this as an excuse to rip consumers off because they are not fully aware of the situation.

"I will not deny that it is going to cost more, but if anything we are talking in terms of hundreds rather than thousands."

Mr Boyce said: "There will be unscrupulous people around that consumers need to be wary of.

"My advice is that if people feel unsure about something they should ring us at building control.

"We can allay their fears and give them independent information, but if consumers don't feel confident then they should not sign anything."

Len Swift, from North Yorkshire Trading Standards, said they were aware of the new rules about to come in.

He said: "It has to have greater insulation properties, so it is a better product.

"But if we hear cases of misleading descriptions and information being passed on to consumers then we might take action."

Mr Swift said trading standards were keeping a careful watch for anyone trying to take advantage of the changing law.

He said: "We are concerned about companies who may be doing this and if this has happened to you then we should like to hear about it.

"It's like anything, consumers should not jump at the first offer they are given.

"If you are approached on the door step with a cold call then you should remember that you do have seven days cancellation rights."

Residents can call building control officers for advice on 01904 720283, or contact trading standards for more information on 01609 780780.

Updated: 09:29 Thursday, March 07, 2002