As a consumer, you have a set of basic rights that were designed to simplify and strengthen the relationship between consumers and suppliers. It’s important that you recognise them to maximise your shopping experience and to understand your legal standing when it comes to dealing with complaints, refunds & repairs. What rights does a consumer have? Your statutory rights that … Continue reading
When it comes to legalities within any industry, there’s no room for misunderstandings or misconceptions, which is why it’s important for you to know the difference between a building guarantee and a building warranty. What is a Building Guarantee? A building guarantee or insurance backed guarantee is something those within a competent person scheme (CPS) should look to offer. Designed … Continue reading
Offering a Double-Glazing Guarantee. Offering a guarantee used to be considered ‘best practice’ but as of 2014 it became mandatory that those within a competent person scheme (CPS) provide an insurance backed guarantee with every installation or home improvement project. As a tradesman or installation company, not only must you provide a guarantee to all customers, the guarantee itself must … Continue reading
Alternative dispute resolution is the use of methods to resolve a dispute without resorting to legal action. They usually involve the use of a neutral third party and can help find a creative solution to resolve an issue. But what are the benefits of such a service for builders and installers? Read on, as we take a closer look in … Continue reading
A recent BBC investigation uncovered that tradespeople can fraudulently advertise their services on two trusted trade sites without having any experience. Such a discovery is likely to increase fears over rogue builders, making it more difficult to attain work via online trade websites. However, becoming a rated tradesmen with the CPA will ensure that won’t happen, and here’s how: The … Continue reading
Are you an installer looking to join an association of tradesmen? If not, you really should be; joining one is essential for any trader. However, if you are, it’s important to choose an association of tradesmen that offers its members plenty of excellent benefits. Here at the CPA, we do just that. Here’s why we’re one of the most valuable … Continue reading
Having no builder’s insurance is highly unwise; it comes with a range of serious potential risks and sanctions. Insurance provides you with essential protection, as it can your customers. Here at the CPA, we’ve looked at some of the different types of builder’s insurance available and their associated risks. Financial punishments If you’re a limited company, or you employ one … Continue reading
According to a recent survey regarding public fears over rogue builders, 32 per cent of the 2,000 people surveyed claimed they were not pressing ahead with building work because of concerns about “dodgy” tradespeople. Therefore, joining a reputable association of tradesmen is arguably more important than ever before. Fortunately for traders, joining an association of tradesmen will ensure that they … Continue reading
Are you a homeowner? If so, are you planning any building work at your home? Would you like a new kitchen or a bathroom upgrade? Do you want to extend your home or convert your loft or garage? Large-scale home improvements can be stressful. When DIY is not an option and you need a skilled person eg. for electrics, plumbing, … Continue reading
Before you begin any construction project, it’s vital to sign a comprehensive contract. A contract between customer and installer will help to protect both parties in the event of unforeseen problems. Avoid disputes with a fair contract Sometimes disputes between a customer and installer are unavoidable. If a customer feels that the work has not been completed to a satisfactory … Continue reading
The UK construction industry skills shortage: could it enable cowboy builders to take home improvements?
“Cowboy builders” and “skills shortage” are terms that have appeared regularly in news headlines over the past few years. One is a problem that is old as time and the other has been accentuate...Read More
Breaking down the Consumer Protection Act 1987 (and how it affects your business)
The CPA has compiled this short guide breaking down the Consumer Protection Act 1987. We have taken excerpts from the Act to help explain how it affects consumers and businesses. Please see the govern...Read More
How does the Trade Descriptions Act protect consumers?
The unfortunate reality of living in the modern world is that there are rogue traders looking to rip you off in every industry. While being savvy is advisable, you still have to be able to trust what ...Read More
