Trading standards - trader approval schemes
If you are looking for a reputable firm to do work on your home or garden, then here are details of a couple of organisations that can help you reduce the risk of hiring a rogue trader.
TrustMark
This award-winning scheme is supported by the Government building industry and consumer protection groups. It is designed to help people find reliable, trustworthy tradesmen to make improvements and repairs to their homes.
If a firm displays the TrustMark logo (see associated link for logo) you know that it has been checked and meets Government standards and complies with a code of practice. There is also a complaints procedure.
TrustMark have published a homeowner's leaflet and an introduction to the scheme is available as a downloadable video. Information is also available for traders who would like to join the scheme. Use the associated links to find out more.
Buy with Confidence
This scheme has been established by trading standards authorities in the south east of England and has been nationally recognised by the Office of Fair Trading.
All the traders have been vetted and approved by our south east trading standards colleagues to ensure that they are trustworthy and operate in a legal, honest and fair way and are monitored regularly. Some of those listed are small job friendly traders and are happy to consider work/orders for £75 or under.
A number of traders such as builders, plumbers, decorators and electricians in the Croydon area belong to the scheme.
The scheme is designed to help consumers avoid rip-offs and cowboys by providing a list of reputable local businesses in a wide range of different trades.
Practical advice
If you cannot find a firm through a trader approval scheme, then ask neighbours, friends and family to recommend someone to you. Only use a firm who gives an address and landline telephone number and if contemplating a larger job do ask them if you can go and see examples of their work to check their workmanship.
Never accept an unsolicited offer from a trader who knocks on your door and offers to do work before you have checked out the firm thoroughly.
Always try to get at least three written quotes for a fixed price for the work. Do not accept an estimate as this may go up later, this is particularly important when agreeing to have a small job done. Ask lots of questions including how long the firm has been in business, if they are a member of a trade association and if their work is independently guaranteed.
Make certain to get everything they say they are going to do in writing and ask for a signed receipt when making a payment. Avoid paying deposits and don't ever pay the whole amount up front. Paying by credit card gives you extra protection if the cost is £100 or more. For more advice on how to avoid being caught out by a scam or rogue trading see also Trading standards - fair trading.
Making a complaint
If you do need to make a complaint about the trader then further advice can be obtained from Consumer Direct, see also Consumer advice.
Consumer Direct offers a telephone service, Monday to Friday 8am to 6.30pm and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, use the number below. You can also use the associated link the register your complaint with Consumer Direct on-line.
