Public urged to find traders they can trust

This article is more than 3 years old

With lockdown restrictions easing, and long-awaited repairs and home improvements now able to take place, Fife Council’s Trading Standards Team is encouraging residents of Fife to take extra care, and also consider using a vetted trader from their Trusted Trader Scheme.

Established in 2011, Fife Council Trusted Trader Scheme is the only official trader scheme in Fife that is backed by Fife Council and supported by Police Scotland. It offers a directory of traders who offer various home improvement services in the area that are fully vetted and have agreed to adhere to the Trusted Trader Code of Practice. This includes a requirement to trade fairly and be committed to providing a quality service to their customers. The scheme relies on customer experience and feedback which is fully verified, so customers can be confident all reviews on the Trusted Trader website can be relied upon.

Dawn Adamson, Fife Council Trading Standards’ Service Manager, said: “A lot of people may be feeling a sense of urgency to get work done on their properties that has been delayed due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Naturally the more unscrupulous tradesmen will be aware of this and may try to take advantage. I would urge members of the public to avoid being harassed into making quick decisions for expensive work to be carried out, and to be especially careful they are not being over-charged for it.

"Take a measured approach by inviting several tradesmen that you have done prior research on to give you a detailed written quote for the work you wish to have done. That should allow you to then make a considered decision on who you wish to contract with. Dealing with traders who are signed up to our Trusted Trader Scheme should certainly ensure a high level of assurance on all fronts.

"As ever, we also strongly advise that you do not do business on your doorstep with traders who unexpectedly knock on your door.”

You can get more information on the Fife Trusted Trader Scheme online by visiting trustedtrader.scot/Fife/

Any business interested in joining the Trusted Trader Scheme can find details at trustedtrader.scot/Fife/signup.php

Consumers who are experiencing difficulties with any trader should initially get legal advice from Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or www.consumeradvice.scot