Finding a reputable tradesperson can be a tricky and sometimes daunting process.
On this page you will find general advice and links to organisations that can help you to avoid the rogues.
General Advice
- Word of mouth – where possible always try to ask friends and family for recommendations.
- Get multiple quotes – don’t ask for work to be carried out until you’ve had at least three written quotes.
- Pay on completion – only pay for the work once you are happy with it. Get a neighbour, friend or relative to look at the completed work to confirm it’s been carried out with reasonable care.
- Check references – where possible, ask the trader for references and check online review sites.
For more information follow these links:
https://www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk/get-involved/events-campaigns/be-scam-wise/
If YOU ever need a locksmith – remember:
- Ideally use one recommended by friends or family.
- Check references.
- Read online reviews carefully.
- Get a clear explanation of how the company charges before they turn up.
If YOU want to avoid ending up on a Suckers List – remember:
- Say ‘no’ to unwanted, uninvited telephone callers.
- Do not buy services or goods from uninvited doorstep sales people.
- Be wise to postal scams. No legal company will ask for money to claim a prize.
- Be wise to rogue traders. Too good to be true offers probably are.
- Don’t feel pressured to make a decision. Remember you can always say ‘no’, or say you need advice first.
- Keep personal details safe. They could be used fraudulently in the wrong hands.
- Research the credentials of the company. Be certain they’re not bogus.
- Talk to someone you trust if you’re suspicious.
- Report a scam. Help expose the criminals.
- Be online savvy. Check who you’re communicating with online.
- Know you are not alone. Anyone can be a victim, report it and get the right support.
How to avoid rogue traders
For further information and help with finding a trader, the following organisations provide help and advice:
- Citizens’ Advicehttps://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/finding-a-trustworthy-trader/
- Trust MarkTrust Mark is the only Government endorsed scheme for trades in and around the home. They award registered firms with accreditation after thorough vetting and on-site inspections to ensure the firm is raising industry standards.
- https://www.trustmark.org.uk/find-a-tradesman
- Buy With Confidence
- All the businesses listed on this website have been vetted, approved and continue to be monitored by Trading Standards, to help ensure you receive a quality service.
- https://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/home/
- No Rogue Traders HereTrading standards backed consumer protection service which is free for the consumer to use. They have a directory of businesses and stay involved throughout the process, monitoring the work on quality and on price.
https://www.noroguetradershere.com/General/how-does-it-work - Age UK operate handyperson servicesMore than 70 local Age UK’s operate handyperson services across much of the country. These services offer older people extra help with small practical jobs to make their lives easier and safer around the home.
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/services/in-your-area/handyperson-services/
- Friends Against ScamsVisit the Friends Against Scams website to complete a short online learning to help you identify people at risk of being scammed.https://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/course.php/2/friends_against_scams_online_learning
- Master Locksmiths Association (MLA)
- A not for profit organisation established to promote the level of skills and ethics within the industry, has established its own licensing scheme whereby its approved companies are vetted, undergo regular inspections to ensure quality, and employ a locksmith with an exam based qualification.http://www.locksmiths.co.uk/
- NFRC
- The National Federation of Roofing Contractors Limited (NFRC) is the UK’s largest roofing trade associationhttps://www.nfrc.co.uk/
- Think Jessica
- A charity committed to protecting elderly and vulnerable people from fraud.
https://www.thinkjessica.com/
How to report rogue traders
To report a rogue trader visit the following:
- Citizen’s Advicehttps://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/report-to-trading-standards/
You can report cases of rogue traders or uninvited doorstep callers to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 04 05 06 or you can talk to a Welsh-speaking adviser on 03454 04 05 05. The helplines are open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm.
