Choosing the Right Tradespeople

If possible, start by getting a referral from family or friends who have recently had work done.

Tradesman using a drill.
Choosing the right tradespeople

Try to use tradespeople who belong to recognised trade organisations. These organisations have rules that members are expected to follow. Common ones include the Federation of Master Builders, the National Federation of Builders and Rated People. Plumbers should be registered with Gas Safe, and electricians should be registered with NICEIC, ECA or NAPIT.

Ask each trade for at least two references. Contact these people and find out how happy they are with the work and the builder’s conduct. If possible, go and view some of the work.

Tradesman using a circular saw to cut new flooring.
Warning signs to watch out for

Be careful if the tradeperson...

  • Turns up without being asked.
  • Says they only take cash.
  • Make problems sound worse than they are.
  • Don't give you any paperwork.
  • Won't share their business name or address.
  • Push you to pay cash straight away.
  • Offer a “VAT-free” deal — ask why and how.

Make sure that you…

  • Ask for a seven-day cooling-off period — this is your legal right.
  • Get a written quote and clear details of the work, including the company’s information.
  • Have proof of public liability insurance.

Don’t pay upfront. Deposits should only be needed for special or made-to-order materials, so avoid them if you can and agree any payment stages in writing. Try not to pay in cash. Don’t pay anything until you’ve checked the work is finished properly. When you do your final check, you might spot problems, and if the tradesperson has already moved on, it can be difficult to get them to come back and fix them.

A tradesman fitting a flood door.
If you have concerns about flood protection work
If something goes wrong during the work, or you’re not happy with anything, speak to the contractor straight away. If they belong to a trade association, the association may be able to help sort out the problem. You may also find the following pages useful:  
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