'Cowboy builders' targeted in new government clampdown
The government is launching a new database and payment protection scheme to combat 'cowboy builders' who leave home renovation projects unfinished or overcharge customers. The initiative requires traders to meet specific service standards and holds customer payments in escrow until project milestones are met.
Why it matters
Home renovation fraud causes significant financial loss and stress for consumers, and this policy aims to standardize accountability in a largely unregulated sector.
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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