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Do you have trouble knowing which way to turn in finding a
reputable trader to carry out your much needed home improvement or
repair works? Do the stories about builders from hell scare you too
much to even think about getting that new bathroom or replacement
windows fitted?
Well worry no more, help and advice is at hand thanks to a new
scheme being brought to you by Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin
Trading Standards services. It is a web based register of home
improvement businesses called the Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin
Trader Register.
This new scheme, which launches in April, aims to signpost
consumers to traders who, whilst not approved by Trading Standards,
have all signed up to an agreed Code of Practice and a commitment
to good customer service.
Over 150 businesses, including plumbers, builders, painters and
decorators, electricians, gardeners and conservatory installers,
are already members of the scheme and more are joining all the
time.
Businesses on the Trader Register have committed to:
- honest and fair trading
- good customer service
- not use pressure selling tactics
- possess Public Liability Insurance
If any problems or disputes arise between the consumer and a
trader on the Register, the traders have committed to work with
Trading Standards to agree a solution.
To find out more, and to access the
Trader Register
call 0845 6789023.
Cllr John Hurst-Knight, Portfolio Holder for Waste and Economy
said: "People are urged to close the door on rogue traders. By
using the Trader Register, you are making an important first step
towards achieving the repair or building work you want with much
more peace of mind.
"The majority of local home improvement businesses do trade
fairly. By using the Trader Register you can be sure that the
business which you choose has made a commitment to honest and fair
trading.
"By going to www.traderregister.org.uk or calling 0845 6789023
to access the Trader Register, you are making an important first
step towards finding a business you can trust."
Lesley (from Whitchurch) who used the Register said: "The scheme
will prove to be very useful for residents of Shropshire."
Shaun Turner of Brightspark Electrical in Craven Arms has
already had a customer find him through the Register. He stated:
"It is a good way for Shropshire people to find tradespeople that
can be trusted to do a good job."
Richard Williams of Locsafe Security Systems Ltd in Shrewsbury
said this week: "It is a brilliant project, customers can find
reliable traders to carry out work for them."
Chris Phillips of InDepth Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning of
Shrewsbury joined the Register in the first wave. He states: "It is
good for people who move into Shropshire, who don't know who to
contact. It gives peace of mind to know that a tradesman is insured
and qualified to carry out work in your home."
The Trader Register scheme is continuing to recruit traders. If
you run a local home improvement business that is committed to
honest and fair trade and are interested in applying, go to
Trader Register and
click on 'new registrations'. Alternatively call 0845 3303313.
Registration is easy and completely free of
charge. |