ITN
Cowboy tradesmen targeted
Cowboy tradesmen targeted
A scheme to stamp out cowboy builders and rogue tradesmen and help householders find reputable firms has been launched. The new initiative, called TrustMark, follows research which shows a lack of consumer confidence in the home improvement firms. Trading Standards receive more than 100,000 complaints every year about shoddy renovation and home improvement work. Nearly two fifths (38 per cent) of householders do not trust tradespeople at all, a survey carried out for TrustMark showed. One in nine respondents thought having building work carried out was a stressful experience. And 65 per cent felt uncomfortable leaving tradesmen alone in their homes. The Government-backed TrustMark scheme issues a set of standards for trade bodies. Operators which meet the criteria may issue the TrustMark logo to their member firms. So far ten organisations have signed up to the scheme. They cover trades such as general builders, electricians, heating engineers, plumbers, glaziers, damp-proof specialists, roofers and fence installers. Industry and the Regions Minister Alun Michael said: 'The clear support from industry is very heartening and reflects a real change of mood towards quality. This is in the interests of customers and the industry's own interests.' TrustMark-approved organisations can be viewed on the website [ www.trustmark.org.uk. http://www.trustmark.org.uk/ ]
ITN | January 30, 2006
