Make this the week you never get ripped off again 

ASK FOR AN ADDRESS

If you need a tradesman, a good rule of thumb is never work with anyone who can’t offer you a fixed office address and landline number. And don’t be tempted by offers of immediate starts, low quotes, cash deals, guesstimates or pressure to commit.

These will almost certainly come from cowboys.

The Government-backed trustmark.org.uk can help you find independently assessed tradespeople, as can the trustedtraders.which.co.uk site run by Which? magazine that lists assessed and endorsed local tradespeople.

CHECK YOUR FACTS

Once you’ve found someone you’re happy with, be sure to follow up any references you are given. Check the trader has insurance against damage to your property — and ask to see it. Ask if they are a member of a trade association such as the Federation of Master Builders and whether they offer insurance-backed guarantees on their work. Both of these may protect you at a later date if something goes wrong.

If you need a tradesman, a good rule of thumb is never work with anyone who can’t offer you a fixed office address and landline number

SIGN A CONTRACT

Once you’re happy with your trader, put everything that you have agreed with him or her down in writing, so both parties know exactly what is expected of them. Don’t be afraid of causing offence — this is business — even if the trader is a friend of a friend. For building work the Joint Contracts Tribunal (jctltd.co.uk) offers free downloadable checklists and advice leaflets.

PAYING UP

Finally, only pay for work that has been done — never pay in advance unless it’s for agreed building materials. If extensive work is being undertaken, set a penalty clause — say £500 a week to be paid if the job overruns the agreed deadline and put this in writing, and always keep a final payment back until the work is finished and snags rectified. 



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