Trade organisations have been awarded TrustMark licences as approved scheme operators in the government’s new consumer protection initiative: a move that sees 10 000 firms registered ready for a January start date.

Construction minister Alun Michael has awarded TrustMark licences to eight construction trade bodies in anticipation of the scheme’s roll-out to the public in January 2006.

The licensing of the organisations, to become approved scheme operators, paves the way for 10 000 firms to become TrustMark registered.

The newly licensed organisations are: the National Register of Warranted Builders; Heating and Ventilating Contractors’ Association; National Federation of Roofing Contractors; Glass and Glazing Federation; British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association; National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers; European Fencing Industry Association; and independent certification body, AJA Registrars.

Michael said: “I want to see consumers empowered and confident that they are making the right choice when selecting a tradesperson to work on their home.

“I am pleased that the construction industry has made a positive start by recognising the need for collective action and the benefit of protecting their customers from cowboy traders. I urge all trade associations and organisations in the domestic repair and improvement sector that are interested in raising standards and improving the image of the industry to join their peers, sign up and become approved scheme operators and help make TrustMark a valued and respected scheme.”

Ian Livsey, chair of TrustMark, said: “The amount of progress made in the last four months has been phenomenal. By the end of this year we will have around 10 000 firms on board, working to a set of standards that consumers have been demanding for years.

“All of the licensees have willingly co-operated with us and embraced the spirit and standards of TrustMark. The board and I are confident that we are building solid foundations for a scheme that will deliver real benefits to the public and which will reward the best in the building trade.”

The DTI has granted £2 million for TrustMark, which runs until April 2007. From then the scheme may become self-funding with a levy of £10 on each member.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor