Fife Trading Standards wants to reinforce its usual advice: “Never do business on the doorstep”. This is even
more important during the current uncertain times and if you do agree to have work done, you might find
prices are inflated, using the current situation as the reason.
Lisa Duncan Lead Professional explains, “The law states that consumers who agree contracts at home must be
given specific information including cancellation rights.
“You should always be wary of traders that turn up at your door uninvited offering to do work especially if
they claim that the property requires repairs that you weren’t aware of. They may try to push you into having
the work done straight away but you may not need the work carried out at all or they may not have the
correct experience or qualifications to do the work to a good standard”.
If you do need to employ a trader, Trading Standards operates the Fife Trusted Trader scheme. Go to
www.trustedtrader.scot/Fife to find a trader you can trust; you can read their reviews online from previous
customers and select the trader you need.
During the current Coronavirus Pandemic, residents will still experience problems with boilers, plumbing
systems and all the usual home maintenance issues which will need addressing. The Trusted Trader website
has been updated with information and FAQs relating to employing a trader during the current public health
situation and will be regularly updated as the situation changes in line with Government advice.
Consumers who are experiencing difficulties with a trader should get advice from Advice Direct Scotland at
www.consumeradvice.scot or on 0808 164 6000.
