Advice

The following are a list of organisations that are on hand to help the consumer with issues they may have, building works being one.

Office Fair Trading (OFT)
The OFT is responsible for making markets work well for consumers. This is achieved by promoting and protecting consumer interests throughout the UK, while ensuring that businesses are fair and competitive.

Department of Trade and Industry (dti)
The DTI is working to create the right conditions for businesses to succeed and to help the UK respond to the challenge of globalisation.

Consumer Direct
Consumer Direct is a telephone and online consumer advice service, supported by the Office of Fair Trading.

They provide clear, practical, impartial advice to help consumers resolve problems and disagreements they may be having with suppliers of goods or services.

From overcharging to faulty goods, from dodgy workmanship to reporting dishonest traders and scams, their advisers are ready to offer solutions for individual problems.

Trading Standards
Their website 'Trading Standards Central' acts as a one stop shop for consumer protection information in the UK.

The site provides a wealth of information for consumers and businesses, schools, advice and information centres, community organisations, local councils, business support agencies and Trade Associations.

TrustMark
TrustMark is a new scheme supported by Government, the building industry and consumer groups to help you find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make improvements and repairs to your home.

Use the website to search for a list of Trade Associations and other organisations that have been approved. They can supply you with details of reputable builders, electricians, roofers, heating engineers and other tradespeople that meet certain standards the Government has set.