24 April 2012
Caerphilly County Borough Council is encouraging residents to continue to look out for the TSSEW Trustmark logo when planning home improvements which require the work of tradesmen.
The council's Trading Standards team has joined forces with Trading Standards teams from Monmouthshire County Council, Newport City Council and Torfaen County Borough Council to promote the Trading Standards South East Wales Trustmark (TSSEW) Scheme.
The scheme is operated on their behalf by DiVersity and in addition to their vetting and monitoring, trading standards carry out additional checks in order to be able to recommend TSSEW traders. Businesses who become members of the scheme promise to operate their business in a legal, honest and fair way.
Trustmark is a Government endorsed initiative, helping homeowners to find reliable and trustworthy tradesmen to provide repairs and home improvements to all parts of their home.
Rob Hartshorn, Head of Public Protection, said, "It can be daunting when attempting to choose a reputable trader if you require work on your property. The Trustmark scheme aims to make the process easier for homeowners, by providing reassurance that Trustmark accredited traders have been vetted, and operate their business fairly and legally".
The Office of Fair Trading has issued a series of tips for both businesses and consumers who will be undertaking home repairs and improvements. These include tips for businesses, such as ensuring contracts are agreed to and signed, making sure additional work is requested in writing and that additional quotes for extra work are provided, and explaining any impact the work they require may have on your customers every day life.
Consumers are also advised to check contracts and compare quotes before commencing with any work on their property, as well as ensuring that any guarantees and warranties for items purchased by the tradesman are kept for future reference.
To access the tips, please visit www.oft.gov.uk. Caerphilly county borough residents who do not have access to the internet can contact Trading Standards on 01495 235 291 to request a copy of the top tips guide.
By visiting www.trustmark.org.uk residents will be able to find details of traders registered with the Trustmark scheme. If the list doesn't cover the trade they are looking for, Trading Standards also support other Trustmark approved traders and promote the Trustmark scheme in general.
Traders wishing to join the scheme can do so by calling 01159 673767 or by emailing trustmark@diversityms.co.uk.
For further information, or to find a Trustmark approved trader, please visit www.trustmark.org.uk.
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