Approved tradesman

Buy With Confidence

Hampshire County Council's Buy With Confidence scheme is a register of checked and approved local businesses. So, whether you want a reliable plumber, electrician or builder, check out the Buy With Confidence list at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk or telephone 08454 04 05 06 for help with obtaining a tradesman from this list.

Choosing a reliable tradesman

Rather than waiting for someone to knock on your door it is often better to find a reliable trader yourself.

• As neighbours, families and friends for recommendations.

• Your local Age Concern branch or District Council may run a scheme to supply a handyman or gardener at a small charge.

• Ay work carried out by the contractor must be of reasonable quality and completed within a reasonable time limit.

• Do not contract for the work until you have got at least three written quotes from similar businesses.

• Make sure the quotes state:
  
  - What work will be carried out
  - The full price including VAT
  - When the work will be started and finished
  
  You may like to use the checklist at the back of the booklet.

• Arrange a pre-set time and date for the trader to start the work.

• Do not pay any money for the work unless you are satisfied the work is of an acceptable quality. Before you pay the bill get a neighbour, friend or relative to look at the completed work to confirm the work has been carried out with reasonable care and skill.

• Do not accept transport to your bank or building society in order to withdraw money to pay for the work. Should this happen, tell the bank cashier. If things do go wrong contact Hampshire Trading Standards Service or your local Citizens Advice Bureau for advice.

Buy With Confidence directory

Telephone 08454 04 05 06 for your own copy of the Buy With Confidence directory containing some of our Buy With Confidence traders.