Elderly Exeter couple targeted in fake drainage scam as council issues urgent warning

Exeter City Council is advising residents in Exeter to stay alert to scam phone calls after it was reported that an elderly couple in the Pennsylvania area were nearly conned out of thousands of pounds by fraudsters posing as drainage contractors.

The council revealed that the couple received an unsolicited phone call in late October 2025 from a company claiming to be working on behalf of Exeter City Council. The caller arranged a home visit and showed the couple what they said was video footage of tree roots blocking their drains, insisting urgent work was needed at a cost of several thousand pounds.

The couple initially agreed for the so-called repairs to be carried out the following day, but a relative intervened after becoming suspicious and attempted to cancel the appointment.

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The council was contacted by the couple who confirmed to them that the company had no connection to them and that no such drainage work had been authorised.

The council has now issued a warning to householders across Exeter, urging them to be cautious if they receive unexpected calls or visits from individuals claiming to represent the local authority or any official body.

A spokesperson for the council said: “We want to make residents aware that Exeter City Council would never ask for payment for drainage works or any other maintenance without prior written communication.” 

“If anyone receives a suspicious call, they should hang up immediately and verify the information directly with the Council.”

Residents are advised to report any scam attempts to Action Fraud and to inform Devon & Cornwall Police by calling 101.