21/08/2025
Please Share!
Becoming increasingly concerned in the number of so called "professionals" being allowed to work on buildings. People that clearly have no to little knowledge of what they are doing.
If you are considering having ANY type of works carried out, please ensure that the "trades person" provides a written outline of what works would be carried out and materials used.
Cheap does not mean Good Value. A decent trade will never work for a cheap price. especially when materials and equipment costs plus, insurance, registration and waste licence and fees and labour are to be considered. "Patch Up jobs" are not repairs and should never be considered as such.
If someone is recommended to you, please take the time to review references and if possible go to see the works carried out in your area. Most people will be more than happy to give you the time to allow questions being asked. A simple note through the door, with your contact details, will allow previous customers to contact you.
When it comes to works being carried out after agreement. Please ensure that you have provided an agreed "Staged" Action of Works, once each stage is completed, then pay the trades person for the completed stage. Final payment made after completion.
Don't fall for glitzy, adverts, or even recommendations that cant be checked. Especially employing trades that are Third Party from the original party agreed with. Certainly don't feel pressurized to make a discission there and then, You are entitled to 14 days "cooling off period" between estimates and works commencements. You do have the right to change your mind/cancel at any time during this period. This is best carried out in both writing and phone call. IF you feel pressurised, call the police or Trading Standards.
It is a huge red flag is one trade talks badly regarding another trade that you have asked for estimates and details from. This is the commonest way of one worker stealing work away from another. Always take advice from independent bodies like Building Control or Surveyors.
NEVER PAY CASH - Credit Card Payments are protected.
Don't be afraid to say NO. A common tactic by Rouge Trades is to say additional works are required, usually said after works have been carried out. - Simply put in writing, dated and signed, that you will have a few quotes for the works if required.
If feeling pressured? have a neighbour or relative with you. In certain cases, call the police, they will attend such calls.
I have known cases, of where customers were "Frog Marched" to the bank and cash point for cash payment - This is a criminal offence.
Tale photos of works vehicles, persons and works as the works progress. This is great evidence if problems should arise.
I hope that this is a help, and would further say, that it is worth waiting for a trade person who is presently busy than to rush to someone who can do the works the following day.
if you have any concern, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.
Michael Barton-Harborne
BHG-Care
