Given the huge amount of coverage on rogue traders in recent years, you’d think the British population would have wised up by now. But it seems that many people still aren’t carrying out simple checks on the tradesmen they enlist to carry out repairs.
According to new research carried out by HomeServe in the north-west, a staggering 82 per cent of people said they don’t carry out online reviews of tradespeople, while two-thirds didn’t even know they would end up paying a callout fee even if the job in their home couldn’t be completed. A similar number admitted that they didn’t ask to see traders’ ID before letting them in, meaning they’re pretty much allowing strangers in over their doorstep.
For this reason, HomeServe - the home emergency repair experts - is offering tips on how to avoid the horror of hiring a rogue trader. Here’s five things to think about:
1. Do your research
You wouldn’t buy a new piece of technology or car without at least reading a couple of reviews – so why do any different with your home? Check online reviews and don’t be afraid to ask for testimonials from previous customers. Can your friends and family recommend someone suitable?
2. Call around
Don’t settle for the first quote you’re given. Ringing around plenty of tradesmen is one of the best ways to get a good price. Found a decent quote? Challenge everyone else to beat it!
3. Always get an upfront price
Agree the price of the job before any work is carried out. Make sure the tradesman knows that you intend to stick to this price – and that any further work should be discussed with you first.
4. Ask for ID
Before even letting a tradesman through your front door, make sure you’ve checked their credentials to ensure they’re legitimate. No ID, no work. Simple.
5. Consider home emergency insurance
With plumbing cover from as little as a few pounds per month, you can enjoy peace of mind that if things do go wrong with your plumbing, you’ll have access to an approved emergency plumber who can be sent out quickly to sort things out. And, apart from any excess on your policy, you won’t have to pay for any repairs within the cover limits. So why not arrange cover today?
This article was written on behalf of HomeServe Membership Limited, a leading UK provider of home emergency insurance and home repair services.
We try to make this advice as useful and reliable as possible. However, it is of a general nature and mightn’t be relevant or appropriate in all circumstances. If you’re unsure of the appropriateness of the advice or of your own DIY skills please use the services of a professional. If you have insurance cover you should check that your cover isn’t invalidated by undertaking any initial work yourself.