Clackmannanshire Council Online

Trading Standards warns of rogue traders

A word of warning is being issued by Stirling and Clackmannanshire Trading Standards to anyone who may thinking of house extension, a new garage, landscaping or other home improvements to think carefully before beginning any work or employing contractors.

The Trading Standards Service receives complaints all year round regarding problems people experience with home improvement work and suggests some guidelines:

• Find out if planning permission is needed from you local Council
• Get several written estimates for works to be undertaken
• Find out if the trader you intend using is a member of any professional organisation, such as Federation of Master Builders or National Federation of Roofing Contractors or British Association Landscape Industries. These organisations should be able to supply you with details of their members who may have to operate within their code of conduct. Some organisation have dispute resolution processes
• Have any contract clearly defined in writing identifying what work is to be undertaken and the cost involved
• If you are having concerns after the work has started, write down such concerns and make them known to an appropriate person involved in the undertaking of the contract

Consumer Adviser, Gordon Howieson, said: "Most home improvements are undertaken satisfactorily but if a dispute arises bring it to the attention of those undertaking the work in writing as soon as possible.

"If the contractor does not act to your satisfaction contact any organisations they may be members of as soon as possible, in writing and also contact your Trading Standards Service."

Gordon added: "Consumers may have the right to claim redress and in some circumstances compensation should it be proven or acknowledged that goods supplied are not of satisfactory quality, or are not fit for their purpose, or are not as described, or it be proven or acknowledged that services have not been undertaken with due care and skill or within a reasonable time."

People are asked to remember if they pay over £100 of the contract price by credit card or credit agreement that the credit grantor, i.e. the credit card company or finance company, may also have a responsibility to assist you in any disputes, which may arise.

If the agreement to carry out any work is the result of a 'cold call' by the trader and the work is for more £35, then you will be entitled to receive cancellation rights unless you give the trader permission to start work immediately.

If you need any further advice or assistance regarding work you have had carried out recently contact Trading Standards on 01786 432170 or email tradingstandards@stirling.gov.uk