JOYCE WATSON AM is backing a new scheme to help consumers avoid cowboy builders and rogue tradesmen.
Mid and West Wales AM JOYCE WATSON is urging local people to use the TrustMark scheme which helps them to search for approved tradesmen.
"Many people tell me how they worry about finding a reputable builder or tradesman to work in their homes but the new TrustMark scheme of registering high quality services will make it easier to identify genuine tradesmen," said Mrs Watson.
"It can cause great distress and expense when someone you have trusted to come into your home fails to do the job properly, particularly for the elderly. I know several people who have been bullied and misled by rogue tradesmen. Some of our poorest and most vulnerable people are being preyed upon, and they need protection.
"Firms have to go through rigorous and independent testing and inspection to check that they meet all government standards before they can receive the TrustMark. Their trading records and financial position are also checked, giving extra reassurance.
"Just look on http://www.trustmark.org.uk/ to find trustworthy local traders and hit the cowboys where it hurts - in their pockets."
TrustMark is the Government backed initiative, supported by the building industry and consumer protection organizations, that helps householders find reliable and trustworthy tradesmen to carry out repair and improvements to the inside and outside of their homes – from builders and plumbers to roofing specialists and landscape gardeners.
TrustMark can help you find reputable firms across a wide range of trades that do home repair, maintenance and improvement work including Builders, Conservatory installers, Damp-proofing and timber treatment specialists, Drain installation, maintenance and repair specialists, Double glazing installers, Electricians, Fence installers, Garden landscapers, Glaziers, Hardscaping and paving contractors, Heating engineers, Joiners and carpenters, Kitchen and bathroom fitters, Loft conversion companies, Painters and decorators, Plasterers, Plumbers, Roofers (including flat roof and lead roof specialists) and Security system installers.
What to do in an emergency
Sometimes you need a plumber, electrician or other tradesperson right away, but that doesn't mean you need to hire the first firm you see in the telephone directory. Don't panic - just make sure you're using a TrustMark-registered firm.
And if you need to agree a deal with a firm over the phone, make sure you know what you are getting into, particularly the costs:
- Ask what the call-out charge will be
- Find out the hourly rate you will be charged (and if that includes VAT)
- Do they carry an adequate stock of materials and spare parts in the vehicles?
- If not, will you be charged while they nip down to the stockist? (Watch out for bills that quickly mount up if they have to wait at the builders' merchants etc.)
- How long do they estimate the job might take?
- What is the typical total cost to the customer of a job of this sort?
- What insurance does the firm carry?
- What warranty or other guarantees can the firm offer you?
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