'Cowboy builders' targeted in new government clampdown
The government is launching a new scheme to protect homeowners from 'cowboy builders' by implementing a trusted trader database and a milestone-based payment system. While intended to reduce consumer losses, industry groups remain skeptical about the scheme's effectiveness in stopping rogue operators.
Why it matters
Home renovation fraud causes significant financial loss to consumers and impacts the reputation of legitimate trade businesses.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The prime minister said rogue builders gave "decent, hardworking" traders a bad name [file pic]
People carrying out home renovations will gain greater protections against "cowboy builders" through a new database of trusted traders and a payment system offering more safeguards, the government has said.
Traders signing up to the scheme launching next month will need to demonstrate certain standards of customer service, transparency and dispute resolution.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said unscrupulous tradespeople "leave families with months of stress" as well as unfinished work.
The National Federation of Builders said the changes would not stop rogue operators while the Tories suggested there would be added paperwork for firms already operating legitimately.
Citizens Advice has said home renovations are one of its biggest sources of consumer complaints.
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