COUNTY Council Trading Standards officers are working with Age Concern Cheshire to launch a trader register of home improve- ment businesses.
Cheshire Trader Register scheme aims to give information to consumers on businesses who, while not approved by Trading Standards, have all signed up to an agreed code of practice and are committed to high standards of customer service.
Trading Standards advise Cheshire residents not to buy goods or services at the door but many consumers find it difficult to find a reliable builder, roofer or gardener and risk becoming a victim of doorstep crime.
The register will include plumbers, electricians, roofers, painters and decorators, gardeners and general builders.
Traders on the register agree to carry out work with reasonable care and skill and to deal with customers fairly and honestly.
Executive member for community and communications Nora Dolphin said: “The scheme will support local traders and will help the most vulnerable members of our communities to find a reliable trader to carry out work in their home or garden."
Alison Kettlewell, deputy chief executive of Age Concern Cheshire, said: “We are delighted to be involved in such an essential project for older people in the county and look forward to helping older people to access traders who are committed to high standards of service.”
Older and vulnerable consumers can ask for a list of traders from Age Concern Cheshire on 01606 881668 or Age Concern East Cheshire 01625 612958 or alternatively consumers can visit the Trading Standards website www.cheshire.gov.uk/ tradingstandards
Trading Standards is looking for more Cheshire businesses to join the register.
If you run a home improvement or gardening business that is committed to honest, fair trading then call Trading Standards Business Support on 01244 973708 or visit the website. Registration is free of charge.
To report suspected rogue traders or for general advice on consumer issues contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
