Textured Wall Coating: Avoid The Cowboys

Having made the decision to get a home improvement project carried out professionally any potential customer is then exposed to an apparent free market lottery.

Imagine having instructed an organisation to carry out work, tuning into house of horrors, rogue traders or watchdog and seeing the very same company named and shamed! An easy solution would be to obtain a word of mouth recommendation, but failing that why not try this . . .

Top 10 Tips To Avoid Getting Ripped Off:

1) Upon making initial contact find out all the organisation particulars such as the registered business address, company registration number and time in business.

2) When the person arrives at your property it`s always a good idea to check I.D; a passport or driving license is always best as a company I.D card can be produced in a bedroom.

3) Satisfy yourselves the property has been fully assessed and obtain a detailed description of work suggested.

4) Always ensure you receive a written contract before handing over any monies, agree future payment terms and stick to them!

5) Don`t automatically go for the cheapest quote.

6) Check any contractor you may employ carries the relevant insurance.

7) Ensure the company is vat registered before paying a 'plus VAT' invoice.

8) Always check the small print on any paperwork you receive.

9) Try to obtain quotations not estimates; as what may seem like a reasonable price at first may then balloon after the job starts.

10) Check with the office of fair trading or your local council to see if the organisation or individual is 'known' to them.