http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/customerfirst
About the buy with confidence scheme -
In response to concerns about 'rogue traders' which are often highlighted in the media, a partnership of Local Authority Trading Standards Services have taken a ground-breaking step by putting together the Buy With Confidence Scheme. The scheme provides consumers with a list of local businesses which have given their commitment to trading fairly -
http://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/about-bwc/
Have you ever said YES to a sale when really you meant NO! This scheme is here to let consumers know that they have the right to say NO. Consumers can choose who they wish to use to provide both sales and goods. There are many traders that have joined the Buy with Confidence Scheme including
Martins cleaning services Ltd who are an approved member of the buy with confidence scheme.
(You may find other Devon companies on this scheme)
in addition to being an approved member of the buy with confidence scheme -
MARTINS CLEANING SERVICES is a member of the National Carpet Cleaners Association (Member: M1919). We provide professional carpet cleaning and cleaning services in Devon and Exeter. We believe the NCCA is not associated with the Buy with Confidence Scheme at the present time.
More information about the scheme can be found here - http://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/about-bwc/terms.php
The terms and conditions of the Scheme define the minimum standards required of members and membership of the scheme requires businesses to adhere to them. These minimum standards have been designed to ensure that member businesses are equipped to deliver good customer service, together with the right and proper personal approach by each and every member of staff. (Script from the above site link)
Trading standards consumer buying advice can be found here -
http://www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk/consumer/buying-advice.php
Find out if the contractor claims to be a member of a Trade Association. This may give you extra security as some Associations have protection schemes, or will help to resolve disputes. It is important to check with the Trade Association that the trader is a current member. (script from the trading standards consumer advice link above)
Disputes can arise over such matters as poor workmanship, delays, the cost of extra work done, and materials. Under the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 you are entitled to expect 'reasonable standards' from a contractor (script from the trading standards consumer advice link above)
Why do I say this; simply because Martins Cleaning Services Ltd do and always have worked with dedication and commitment to all our customers, both domestic and commercial for all our services.
We are delighted with our - Fantastic reputation -
The Buy With Confidence scheme provides consumers with a list of reputable businesses that they can trust and use with confidence and to support and recognise those businesses which are committed to high standards of trading and prepared to comply with both the letter and the spirit of the law. (script from the trading standards consumer advice website)
We mentioned above that Martins Cleaning Services Ltd is a member of the National Carpet Cleaners Association http://www.ncca.co.uk/member.php?memid=1919
to find out more above this trade association click here -
http://www.ncca.co.uk/
The National Carpet Cleaners Association is the only nationally recognised trade association dedicated to the cleaning of carpets, hard flooring and soft furnishings -
Service with integrity!
'Registered bodies' find the meaning of registered bodies here -
http://www.accessni.gov.uk/home/who-uses-ani/registered-bodies.htm
Information of general interest ....
There can be misconceptions where trade marks and registered trade marks are used. To show consumers the meaning of such trade marks and registered marks, take a look at these links below -
The meaning of TRADE MARKS & Registration -
http://www.ipo.gov.uk/types/tm/t-about/t-whatis.htm
See also -
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trademark
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Registered_trademark_symbol
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Service_mark
http://www.trademarksbureau.co.uk/uk_trade.asp?gclid=COyOi9_p1KACFQIslAodKhc2uQ
Having read the details about fair trading in detail you will now have found useful information about how to identify a 'Rogue trader'.
Such companies usually show themselves in a bad light with their 'attitude' towards others -
Some clues ....
- references (usually OTT) which cannot be backed by real people.
- may do anything possible to discredit any other company or business within their area/locality and/or trade in order to attempt to gain business.
- may use their 'own' website or blog to discredit other businesses
