Bogus gas inspectors have been making the rounds in Torrox Costa, looking to fleece the unwary of their hard-earned money.
Foreign visitors and the elderly are prime targets for these individuals, exploiting a lack of knowledge of the rules and regulations relating to gas inspections.
A gas inspection is required every five years, but the reputable and approved gas companies do not go door to door touting for business. The property owner/tennant is the one who has to make an appointment with the approved company.
An inspection generally costs around €50. The bogus inspectors, after doing very little or replacing, sometimes unnecessarily, a rubber hose, will try to charge up to €600 for the task. They can also be quite forceful and intimidating.
The advice: If someone knocks at the door saying they need to inspect the gas installation, DO NOT LET THEM IN.
During the summer period you could well get these characters appearing at your door almost on a weekly basis.