When you need a job doing in your home, whether it’s some building, plumbing or general maintenance work, you’ll want to ensure that the person you get to do it is qualified and reliable. But, with so many tradespeople available, how do you know whether you are going to get a good service?
With so many disaster stories being reported nowadays of rogue traders running off halfway through jobs, and vulnerable people being ripped off, it is important to know how to find that reliable tradesperson that can be trusted to get the job done.
1) Get personal recommendations
Many tradespeople rely on ‘word of mouth’ for their business and personal recommendations are highly valuable when it comes to getting more work. If you need something done it’s worth asking friends, family or work colleagues in your local area whether they have used someone before that they would recommend. If they are happy with the work they have done, it’s likely that they will do the same for you.
2) Use the Trading Standards website
Trading standards was set up to ensure consumers in the world don’t get ripped off by rogue traders and scammers. You may find that builders and other tradespeople in your area have signed up to Trading Standards to show that they are a genuine service – this often requires a strict approval process as they won’t be approved unless they meet very high levels of workmanship.
3) Internet trades directories
There are now numerous trade directories online which help you find a reliable worker for your job. Sites such as Top Tradespeople allow you to search your local area and filter for the specific trade you require. You can then get a number of quotes to compare online from various tradesmen interested in your job, as well as viewing recommendations from other website users into their work.
4) Meet them in person first
First impressions can count a lot, and if you aren’t one to be easily sucked in by a bit of smooth talk, it is well worth meeting your potential tradesperson face to face to discuss the job. It’s often fairly easy to get a feel of whether they understand what is required and whether or not they are likely to be a time waster.
5) Ask to see examples of their previous work
When weighing up the various tradespeople for your job, one of the best ways to see whether they are going to be reliable is by taking a look at some examples of previous work – especially the work that is similar to what you require. This is particularly useful if you are unable to find personal or local recommendations for them.
