**Watchdog Issues Fresh Warning Over Spray Foam Insulation Amid Milestone Anniversary**
As the iconic consumer rights segment ‘Watchdog’ marks its 40th year in broadcasting, its current host, Matt Allwright, has sounded the alarm over a rise in dubious spray foam insulation sales targeting homeowners across Britain.
Celebrating four decades of exposing bad practice and advocating for everyday consumers, Watchdog now resides as a popular feature within BBC’s ‘The One Show’, fronted by Allwright together with Nikki Fox. The milestone gave the presenting duo a chance to reflect on the programme’s proud legacy of hard-hitting investigations and significant industry reforms. However, amidst the celebratory mood, Allwright has drawn attention to what he describes as a worrying trend in home improvement scams.
Speaking ahead of a commemorative special entitled ‘Watchdog at 40’, Allwright highlighted the growing number of complaints regarding the mis-selling of spray foam insulation—a building material that, despite some legitimate uses, comes with serious risks that are not always disclosed by less scrupulous sellers.
“Most homes simply don’t require spray foam insulation—traditional solutions like fibreglass matting are adequate for the vast majority of attics,” Allwright explained. He emphasised that installing spray foam could unnecessarily complicate future property transactions. “The reality is, some lenders are reluctant to mortgage properties that contain this material, and should you ever need to remove it, the costs can be staggering.”
Watchdog’s role in uncovering such malpractice is not without precedent. Over its four decades, the programme has helped secure the return of tens of thousands of pounds to consumers, tackling issues ranging from inflated event ticket prices to erroneous utility billing. Allwright shared, “Being able to restore fairness and sometimes life-changing sums to viewers is a privilege and a responsibility I truly value.”
Industry concerns regarding spray foam insulation have been mounting. Not only do some installations lead to damp or structural complications, but homeowners have found themselves blindsided by the discovery that these modifications make their properties unacceptable to many mortgage lenders. The expense and difficulty of removal often come as an unwelcome surprise.
“Transparency is key. If homeowners are being sold a product that costs thousands to install, and potentially just as much to remove, they deserve every detail upfront—especially if the item could jeopardise a house sale when it matters most,” Allwright stressed.
Since hitting television screens in 1985, Watchdog has seen an array of familiar faces, with Anne Robinson and Nick Frost among the notable alumni. The show evolved in format in 2020, transitioning from a standalone programme into a regular feature within ‘The One Show’. The anniversary special will see Fox and Allwright reminiscing on memorable exposés and positive outcomes that have shaped the show’s standing as a champion for the British public.
Reflecting on Watchdog’s enduring relevance, industry observers note the ongoing importance of investigative journalism in holding retailers and service providers to account. The persistence of scams and mis-selling tactics underscores the programme’s role in empowering viewers to protect their consumer rights.
The Watchdog anniversary feature is set to air Wednesday at 7pm on BBC One, providing not only a look back at the battles won but also a timely reminder of the challenges still facing consumers. In these uncertain times for both homeowners and buyers, vigilance and informed decision-making remain watchwords.
As ever, the Watchdog team encourages viewers to remain cautious when dealing with large home improvement purchases, to seek independent advice, and to report any concerns to the relevant authorities. With four decades of public service behind them, Allwright and Fox reiterated the importance of staying alert and questioning anything that doesn’t quite add up.