Looking for a reliable business? Take some advice from consumer direct

Looking for a reliable business?

Take some advice from consumer direct

LONDON. March 13, 2008/3mnewswire.org/ -- Finding a reliable business in your area can sometimes be tricky, but there are ways of increasing your chances of success, advises Consumer Direct.

A number of government-supported schemes currently exist to help you avoid the rogue traders and find businesses that offer high standards of customer service.

One such initiative is the OFT's Consumer Codes Approval Scheme which aims to influence and improve standards across industry sectors.

Businesses displaying the 'OFT Approved' logo must be members of a trade body whose code of practice guarantees a higher standard of customer service than required by law.

Currently there are a number of trade bodies with codes approved by the OFT in markets such as car servicing and repair, removals, estate agency, direct selling and home furnishings. You can search by postcode for businesses that follow an 'OFT Approved' code by visiting the website at http://www.oft.gov.uk/codes

The government-endorsed TrustMark scheme focuses on helping find reliable tradespeople to carry out repair, maintenance and home improvement work. Trustmark-approved tradespeople, including plumbers, electricians and kitchen and bathroom installers can be found on the Trustmark website at http://www.trustmark.org.uk

The OFT also supports a network of schemes managed by local authority Trading Standards Services which help identify assured local traders. To find out if your local authority is a member of the Local Authority Assured Trader Scheme Network, visit: http://www.oft.gov.uk/oft_at_work/consumer_initiatives/trader/network-members

Michele Shambrook, Operations Manager at Consumer Direct said: 'The government supported schemes can take a lot of the worry out of finding reputable traders, but it's worth talking to friends and family who can also be a valuable source of advice.'

Further advice and information on all consumer issues is available by calling Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visiting the website at http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

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