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Finding The Right Trader

Finding the right trader is never easy, but we hope this guide will help you avoid making a big mistake. Just a few golden rules can save you a lot of heartache and the loss of your hard earned cash.

We have all seen the ads in the directories, phone book and the news papers but which one of the following adverts catches your eye the most ?

Which business would you choose ?
Looking at the sample adverts.
The big expensive advert on the left or the small budget text box on the right ?

Most people would be drawn to the large advert, as you get a sense that the company behind the big advertisement must be more established and must be a better risk to employ than that behind the budget text box. You will also see companies advertising that they're a member of this or that associations, this offers you a sense of security as they must be pretty good to have achieved such high standards. But the big questions are they still members ? Have they ever been a member of that trade association ??

Anyone could replicate the large advert by just spending out that little bit extra so don't be fooled and don't go with your initial instincts.

Some associations are quite strict as to the competency level that must be displayed to get that special sticker initially, this in some cases only involves passing a few tests and does not require the individuals to pass ongoing tests. Do your homework, follow the guide below and you should greatly improve your chances of finding the right trader for the right job ...

Never employ anyone that knocks on your door, offering to do work for you.
Search the TradersReview directory for reviews and make a shortlist of contacts.
Ask family, friends and work colleagues for their own personal recommendations.
Check with an official trade body for reputable traders in your area.
Make sure that the traders membership is indeed valid. Check with the trade body if in doubt.
Ask the trader to provide you with references. Check out the referees if you have any doubts.
Don't be afraid to ask for an estimate no matter how small the job, make sure you can afford to pay for the work you want undertaking.
Prepare a written description of the work to include the exact details of the work you want carried out. Make sure to include a start and a completion date & times, hours of working, benchmark dates for specific tasks, security and safety. Aways get a signature.
Always insist on a written estimate. (Don't rely on verbal assurance). Get that signature.
Avoid VAT free and cash only deals. Your contract may be invalid if you've no proof of payment.
Don’t be pushed into making a decision until you are completely happy with the arrangements. Never sign an order on the night, sleep on it and give yourself time to think about what your doing.
Remember ... you do have a choice on who to employ.
Don't part with any cash deposits upfront. Your trader should have adequate funds to purchase materials for the job. On larger building works it is customary for stage payments to be made as the work progresses.
Check if the builder is insured against claims covering property damage, personal and public liability in the event of accident and injury. Ask to see a copy of their insurance certificate.
Consider taking out a warranty which insures you against future problems relating to work carried out on your home or business. It’s OK getting a 30 year guarantee, but what happens if the firm goes bust ?
Submit a review on TradersReview and let everyone know how you got on.
Join our free online forum and talk to real tradespeople and good luck.

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