Online Resources to Help Avoid Rogue Traders

If you're considering getting a tradesman in to carry out a job for you, naturally most people are slightly apprehensive at the thought. With continual press outlining rogue traders and how many people are affected by them, it's understandable that many people feel concerned at whether they'll be able to choose a reputable and reliable tradesman. As with any contract, it's important that before signing with a workman, you get as many quotes as you can and of course ask a variety of questions . One of the best places to look for help on what to ask and how to avoid potential rogue traders is online, where you will find numerous websites covering ways of avoiding rogue traders and substandard tradesmen.

User Forums and Rogue Traders

One of the most valuable places to find information on possible tradesmen and ways of avoiding rogue traders is to read other peoples views and experiences. Many online forums exist where you can read messages, share messages and ideas with others and ask for advice about specific tradesmen or situations. People power being harnessed in this way can be very powerful indeed, as often experience is the best tool to equip yourself with when it comes to tradesmen. Forums let individuals openly express themselves without concern for any recourse from the tradesman, so often they'll be more open here than elsewhere. You can find out essential information about rogue traders in your area and pick up tips on who to avoid or who to seek out. The more information you can get on a tradesman before you employ him or her, the more satisfactory your job should be. The easiest way to find a forum is to simply search for it in Google and then look around for people in your area. If you have a specific question or concern, ask in the forum and hopefully someone will be able to help you out.

Official Bodies and Online Resources

Many governing bodies of tradesmen will now have their own website that outlines the best traders in their areas and those that are considered reputable. By agreeing to sign up to both national and local schemes and associations, many tradesmen cover themselves from being considered a rogue trader and are given the approval of the governing body. This of course makes it easy for someone to find them online. Always look for their official business number and make sure they have a business address and phone number too. Little tips like this can be all that separates a reliable trader from a rogue trader and this will save you stress and money in the long term. Below are a list of websites that will provide you with valuable online resources in avoiding rogue traders and finding reputable ones instead.

• TrustMark
• SNIPEF
• IPHE
• FMB
• NHBC
• Recommended Tradesman
• Rated People
• Checkatrade
• The Good Tradesman
• Quotatis
• Tradestamp
• UK Trade Street

Using Online Resources to Avoid Rogue Traders

The benefits of using online resources to avoid rogue traders are numerous. Checking a reputation of a tradesman on a site such as Checkatrade means that you're getting word of mouth testimonials for that individual. Not only that, but you can search by location, occupation, trade and more, giving you the ultimate flexibility in who you choose for your job. Companies that are set up online specifically to help consumers find the right tradesman are often happy to share information on individual tradesmen and will only partner or recommend those that are fully licensed and accredited. It can prove to be invaluable information that you receive from using these sites and they're worth checking out before you enter into a contract with anyone.