I know thousands are being ripped off by cowboy builders and traders – but there are six steps to avoid it
THOUSANDS of people are being ripped off by cowboy builders and traders, but there are simple steps to avoid being conned.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has shared tips to avoid rogue traders in a bid to protect consumers.
The consumer rights body has also launched a crackdown on recommendation sites, to ensure they take responsibility for the traders they recommend.
Hayley Fletcher, interim senior director of consumer protection at the CMA said: “We’ve heard from too many people who’ve been left distressed or out of pocket by cowboy traders.
“That’s why the CMA is cracking down on trader recommendation sites.
“When it comes to finding someone to do essential work on your home – whether it’s a builder, carpenter or plumber – it’s hard to know where to start.
“Many of us turn to the internet and use a website that helps you find and connect with traders.
“In just a few quick taps you’re comparing prices and are hiring a trusted professional to get the job done. But that’s not always the case.
“We know thousands of people have had run-ins with rogue traders.
And when things go wrong, the sites provide little to no help.
“This isn’t on. It’s time for these sites to step up and do right by their customers.”
The consumer rights champion said the CMA’s first step was to make sure that recommendation sites are abiding by the law and checking the information they provide is honest, clear and transparent.
Hayley added: “It sounds simple, but this is the backbone of making sure people are getting what they expect when parting with their hard-earned cash.
“It also means there’s a level playing field for the thousands of qualified and honest traders who are already playing by the rules – and who frequently use these kinds of sites to reach customers.”
The CMA has issued a warning to recommendation sites setting out exactly what they should and should not do, according to the law.
It has also provided tips for consumers, advising them on the warning signs to watch out for and what questions to ask before agreeing to work.
Hayley added: “We’ll be keeping an eye on this sector and expect businesses to heed our advice and make any necessary changes asap – particularly as the CMA is set to get stronger powers next year to tackle consumer rip-offs.”
If you’re looking to find a trader here are the CMA’s six steps to help protect yourself from being ripped off:
1. Don’t believe everything you read
Hayley warned those looking for a trader not to take claims of “trustworthiness” made on recommendation sites at face value.
She said that while many sites use terms like “trusted”, “reliable” and “expert” to describe traders, these may not be true or verified.
Failure to verify claims is one of the areas the CMA will be cracking down on and the consumer champion have issued a warning to websites.
2. Check your recommendation site’s credentials
When scouring the internet for a reliable trader, check out the credentials of your recommendation site.
Hayley said consumers should check that sites verify their traders and ensure they have the necessary licenses, insurances, and certifications.
Those carrying out independent checks are likely to publicise this on their website.
For example Checkatrade says every tradesperson on the site has passed up to 12 rigorous checks.
If you can’t see the information look for contact details and ask directly how traders are verified.
3. Check how the site handles complaints
Hayley recommended that consumers check how sites deal with complaints about traders.
She said it was important to make sure sites have a strong complaints process to support unsatisfied customers.
It’s also wise to check exactly what sites do to help resolve disputes between traders and consumers and see whether they provide any guarantees on work.
4. How are traders monitored
As well as verifying traders’ credentials its important to check how recommendation sites monitor the work of those they are recommending.
Consumers should ask how sites gather and review feedback on work done and what sanctions are applied to traders if complaints are upheld.
Hayley also recommended checking to find out if rogue traders are removed from the site.
What to do if you fall foul of a cowboy builder?
Radio broadcaster Clive Holland exposes cowboy builders and told The Sun what homeowners should look out for.
Dodgy suitor
Many of us let our guard down when confronted by a sharply-dressed, smooth-talking salesperson – but they are not always who they appear to be.
“Unfortunately, a cowboy builder doesn’t walk around with a cowboy hat and boots, so they are not always the easiest to spot,” Clive said.
“Looks can be deceiving and while builders should be smartly dressed, sometimes they may have just come from the site or a job.
“They may look a bit messy or their builder’s bum may be on show, and while no one wants to see that, it doesn’t mean they are a bad tradesperson.”
Be wary of the builder from ‘down the road’
Clive claims most people get lazy and forget to do their due diligence when it comes to arranging renovations and repairs.
This tardiness, he says, is behind many of the unfortunate tales of people being conned out of thousands.
Clive, who presents on Fix Radio, said: “If you’re looking for a builder, don’t immediately trust the person working on a house down the street.
“Go to your local builders’ merchant and ask them for the three best people they know. You’ll be surprised by how helpful they can be.
“The workers they recommend will be solid tradespeople, who are nice and pay the merchant on time – proving they are trustworthy.”
Ask to see their work
Clive explains that “any tradesperson worth their salt” will have worked on similar jobs to the one you are asking them to complete.
“Always ask to see a like-for-like job and then go to visit it to ensure everything is legitimate,” he said.
“If they give you an address don’t be afraid to go and knock on the person’s door and ask them what they thought of the work.
“If they have red rings around their eyes or are in floods of tears, you have definitely found a cowboy builder.”
How to spot fake paperwork
Before hiring any tradesperson for a job it’s important to ensure they are qualified, registered and insured.
Clive said: “Ask for a copy of their liability insurance and proof from official bodies that they have the right skills to complete the job.
“They should be registered with different agencies – call them to ensure they are registered and do have the qualifications to do the work.
“You should also call the underwriters for their liability insurance to make sure it’s still valid.
“If they make an excuse about not having documentation with them don’t hire them until you see it because they could be a rogue trader.”
Always sign a contract
Clive says one of the best protections you can have is a Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) document, which outlines the work, materials needed and payment dates.
“A JCT protects you both by giving a start and estimated finish date, as well as the tradesperson’s working hours and when they will take breaks.
“Sit down and go through each stage of the project: itemise everything they need and how much it will cost and both of your expectations.
“It may sound tedious but you’re paying a lot of money – everything from how many planks of wood to the number of doors.”
5. Check reviews
Reading reviews is one of the key checks made by consumers before parting with their cash.
But, Hayley warned consumers to check that reviews have been verified.
She advised looking for signs such as badges confirming that the site has checked feedback has been submitted by genuine customers of the tradespeople.
6. Do your research before selecting a tradesperson
Once you’ve found a reliable website Hayley urged consumers to compare traders carefully before making a booking.
She said it was important not to rush into making a decision and to carefully review information.
Factors she said should be taken into account included experience, qualifications, certifications, and verified customer reviews.
It’s crucial to make an informed decision when you’re selecting a tradesperson as the consequences can be devastating.
One distraught homeowner told The Sun he had been left £52,000 out of pocket after rogue traders left his family without a dream extension.
Experts have also shared their advice on what to do if you’re concerned about your tradesperson.
The advice follows a warning that rogue traders have been targeting Generation Z because they are believed to be clueless about DIY.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories