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.

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.

For more information and a list of reputable traders near you, visit the Buy with Confidence website.

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 you know that it has been checked and meets government standards and complies with a code of practice.

Information is also available for traders who would like to join the scheme.

Visit the TrustMark website for more information.

Which? Trusted Trader Scheme

Consumer group Which? have launched a trusted trader scheme which is a free-to-use service helping consumers find reputable and local traders. It recognises reputable and trustworthy traders, giving consumers confidence and peace of mind when hiring a tradesman. To find a trusted trader in your area visit the Trusted Traders website.

Making a complaint

If you need to make a complaint about a trader, contact Citizens Advice on 03454 04 05 06, Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm or visit the Citizens Advice self-help website for more information.

Consumer group Which? also offer a free service which provides help to consumers getting to know their consumer rights, the regulations and laws surrounding these, and how to take action accordingly. Visit for more information visit the Which? website.