A new online directory created ‘to protect consumers from rogue traders’ has been launched by the HomeOwners Alliance in partnership with the FMB.
With trade categories including conservatories, double-glazing, patio and bi-folds, the online service aims to connect homeowners with inspected and vetted tradespeople close to them.
The timing is right, say the two organisations, With National Trading Standards braced for a spike in green home improvement scams and Citizens Advice seeing an 18% rise in complaints year-on-year, alongside a 28% increase in doorstep crime complaints.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Our organisations share similar values, and it’s exciting to be bringing the FMB name and our services to a wider audience so we can all build better.
“Our free Find a Builder service connects consumers with local, quality builders, and we provide advice and support for getting started with your building project.”
Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of the HomeOwners Alliance, said: “We know from the millions of visitors to the HomeOwners Alliance website that finding a builder is stressful. But more than that, rogue traders can leave consumers devastated with hefty financial losses.
“We also know that the unregulated market puts consumers off from doing home improvement works. We are addressing this by offering the FMB’s Find a Builder service to connect consumers with trusted quality builders that have been vetted. We are proud of our campaigning work with FMB and look forward to continuing to make a real difference to consumers today and in the future.”
https://hoa.org.uk/services/find-a-builder/
