 The summer months bring out hundreds of unscrupulous traders who knock on doors suggesting your tiles are loose, you have problems with pointing, damp or guttering or your driveway is in need of repair.
These rogue traders invent all sorts of problems with your home, offer special deals or even try to frighten you into getting you to employ them. Last year it is estimated that rogue traders stole £170 million from unsuspecting homeowners across the UK.
The advice from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is very clear. Never employ a tradesperson who knocks on your door. Only ever employ a tradesperson who has been recommended to you or who is a proven member of a reputable trade association such as the FMB.
It pays to check out their references before you employ them.
"A good builder will never knock on doors asking for work so never say 'yes' to anyone on your doorstep touting for work."
The FMB has linked up with Trading Standards to launch a 'Nail the Rogues' campaign and has the following advice for homeowners on how to avoid being ripped off by a rogue trader.
How to spot a rogue trader:
Cold callers may use lines like these to frighten homeowners into doing business with them:
- You have loose tiles on your roof
- Your roof has been leaking
- I see cracked brickwork on your house
- You need to have some pointing on your chimney
- You need some work doing on your driveway
- I'm doing some work in your area and have materials left over
- I'm doing free property surveys to check if you have rising damp
- Your brickwork is acting like a sponge soaking up the rainwater
|
|
The safest way of employing a builder
With stories circulating about bad builders, rogue tradesmen and shoddy work, leaving customers with unfinished work or damaged homes, it's understandable that people worry about hiring a builder for their project.
However FMB's few simple steps can make the difference between a nightmare project and a trouble free job:
- Be clear, specific and prepare as detailed a brief as possible.
- Ask friends and family for recommendations, check with a trade association such as the FMB and its 'find a builder' website
- Ask for references or speak to previous clients about their experience of the builder, and whether they finished the project on time and within budget.
- Get at least three quotes which should include the whole project including materials, removal of rubbish and making good after the project has finished.
- Don't just go with the cheapest, consider communication and quality too.
- Use a contract. You can download free contracts on the FMB website.
- Never pay the full cost of the project up front. Agree a payment plan as part of the contract. Using a credit card to pay can offer you more protection.
- To find a FMB builder in your area visit: www.fmb.org.uk/findabuilder or call the freephone number 0800 152 522
|
 |
|
To mark the launch of their 'Nail the Rogues' campaign, the FMB is offering 2 readers the chance to win home security lights.
The motion-activated sensor attaches to your wall, garden fence or other outdoor area so you can be safe in the knowledge that any unwanted visitor will activate the light when they come within range.
» Click here to enter
Closing date 31st August. |
|
Come on down to the National Home Improvement Show
Thinking about a basic home makeover or a total renovation? Considering a stunning kitchen or just replacing your windows? For practical advice, inspiration and products that will really improve your home, visit the Real Homes National Home Improvement Show at Earls Court from 2-4 October 2009.
The Show also features a programme of presentations from TV personalities including George Clarke from C4s 'The Home Show', Julia Kendell presenter of 'DIY SOS' and Matt James TV's City Gardener.
» Visit the website
Earls Court from 2-4 October 2009
|
 |
|
