The government has proposed new assessment measures to protect people from cowboy builders. Kevin Byrne, Managing Director of Checkatrade, which vets and monitors trades companies and services to help people avoid rogues, comments:

“Unannounced spot checking is essential to any assessment worth its salt, so the government’s measures are a step in the right direction. However, in my experience what really separates the wheat from the chaff is independent feedback from real customers. By monitoring it, people can be sure of appointing a reputable trader and avoid those who perform substandard work.

“Customer protection is the lifeblood of my industry so, frankly, I am at a loss to understand why the government is not talking to us about this. There is much more that could be done to protect the public from cowboys and we stand ready to assist or advise in any capacity.”

For background on this story you can read an article about the government’s proposed measures by visiting the Guardian’s website.