Choosing a reputable trader

Wiltshire Council recommend always doing your homework on the business and starting with the trader approval scheme Buy With Confidence (opens new window). Not all trader approval schemes thoroughly vet their members, so despite the fancy advertising they may not be as reliable as they seem. The Buy With Confidence (opens new window) trader approval scheme carries out extensive vetting which is one reason it is the only trader approval scheme endorsed by Wiltshire Trading Standards.

Before choosing a trader, you should:

• ask friends and family to recommend local traders
• whenever possible get at least three written quotes from reputable businesses
• make sure you have the full name and address of the trader or company
• never agree to work offered by cold callers whether on the phone or in person
• research the companies you are looking to use
• ask for references and look at online reviews
• ask to see professional qualifications, public liability insurance and, if applicable, a waste carrier's licence
• refuse to be rushed into making a decision. Claiming work is urgent or a price is only available for a short time are classic rogue trading tactics
• decide who to use in your own time and make sure you have confidence in their skills and abilities
• avoid being swayed by glossy flyers or impressive websites as they may not show the trader's own work
• never pay upfront. Reputable traders won't ask for upfront payments or large deposits
• do not pay cash or agree to be taken to the bank. Pay by bank transfer so the payment is traceable, or even better use a credit card as you have greater protections via the credit card company

Trading Standards South West have produced a detailed checklist to help you choose a builder: Finding a builder checklist (PDF, 1 MB)(opens new window).