Reputation
Check the trader’s ratings on the Good Trader Scheme website to find out what experiences other homeowners have had with the trader you are considering. Ratings relate to quality of work, customer service & time taken, helping you make an informed decision on who to consider. Depending on the size and cost involved in the job it may be advisable to ask to view the trader’s portfolio, speak to previous customers or if possible to visit previous jobs.

Paperwork
Make sure you receive a written quotation for the work to be done. The quote should include details of the job to be undertaken the price and where appropriate, a payment schedule. It is a good idea to clarify up front whether the trader is VAT registered and whether you will be charged any VAT. Be careful about paying a large deposit and make sure you obtain a receipt for all payments when they are made.

Guarantees
A trader will sometimes guarantee their workmanship for a period of time. Make sure you have clarified what this period is and that you have the relevant paperwork if you need to make a claim at a later stage.

Qualifications
There are certain trade sectors listed on the Scheme which we will not accept membership of
unless they are registered with particular trade bodies or organisations.

Gas Work
Gas Safe are the official list of gas engineers who are registered to work safely and legally on boilers, cookers, fires and all other gas appliances. By law all gas engineers must be on the Gas Safe Register. Registered traders carry a personal ID card, so check their licence number and expiry date. On the Scheme only Gas Safe registered traders are able to be listed under the trade categories of Gas Engineer or Central Heating Engineer, however non registered traders can register as plumbers but there will be limits on what work they can legally perform. If a trader is not registered with Gas Safe they can offer gas services if they employ a subcontractor to do the work but be sure to check their ID.

Electricians
Traders need a Part P qualification to do most electrical work in your property. Ask to see proof of your trader’s Part P credentials to avoid having to contact your local building authority for certification. When joining the Good Trader scheme a trader will have provided evidence that they are a member of one of the government backed certification bodies such as NAPIT, ELECTSA or NICEIC. We do not accept traders as electricians unless they are a member of one of these schemes.

Double Glazing
Businesses whose sole and primary trade is glazing or double glazing installation/repairs are required to be a member of trade association such as FENSA, BSI or Certass.