Warning to anyone using 'trusted trader' websites as watchdog issues advice
by Neil Shaw · ChronicleLiveThe Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued a warning to consumers using 'trusted trader' sites, cautioning that the reality may not always match the promise.
These websites and apps, which help people find and contact tradespeople like builders, plumbers and heating specialists, often claim that their advertisers have been vetted or assessed based on the quality of their work.
However, the CMA is urging consumers not to rely solely on terms such as 'trusted', 'reliable' or 'expert'. Instead, they should choose a site that verifies traders by ensuring they possess the necessary licences, insurances and certifications.
The CMA also emphasised that these sites should have robust complaints processes and offer support in resolving disputes. They should monitor traders, penalise poor behaviour and remove rogue traders.
Reviews should be marked as being from verified customers, and consumers should compare traders before making a decision, considering factors such as experience, qualifications, certifications and verified customer reviews.
Hayley Fletcher, the interim senior director of consumer protection at the CMA, commented: "Millions of people use these sites to find a trusted and skilled trader but that's not always what they get. We're arming consumers with a handy set of tips to use while navigating trader recommendation sites to help them find a legitimate and reliable trader", reports Wales Online.
She added that clear guidance has also been provided for the sector, stating: "We've also issued advice for the sector – meaning sites should be entirely clear about what they should and shouldn't do when it comes to consumer law. Not only does this help protect consumers, it also means that the thousands of reliable and honest professionals who rely on these sites to connect with customers are competing on a level playing field.
"We expect all trader recommendation sites to carefully read the advice and review their practices. We'll be monitoring the sector to see if more action is needed."
Echoing the importance of protecting the public and honest businesses, Mike Andrews from the National Trading Standards eCrime Team stated: "Protecting consumers and honest business is at the heart of everything we do and we've welcomed the work CMA and partners have done to get this guidance in place.
"It marks the start of trader recommendation sites ensuring they vet and verify traders more carefully and take consumer complaints more seriously. With the guidance finalised and by following these tips, consumers can now be more confident about getting the right plumber, plasterer or roofer for the job, while genuine traders will no longer miss out on jobs that might otherwise have gone to illegitimate ones."
Join our WhatsApp communities
ChronicleLive is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our communities.
We have a number of communities to join, so you can choose which one you want to be part of and we'll send you the latest news direct to your phone. You could even join them all!
To join you need to have WhatsApp on your device. All you need to do is choose which community you want to join, click on the link and press 'join community'.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the ChronicleLive team.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
If you’re curious, you can read our privacy notice.
Join the ChronicleLive Breaking News and Top Stories community
Join our Court & Crime community
Join the Things to do in Newcastle and the North East community
Join our Northumberland community
Join our County Durham community
Join our Great North Run community