The Trustmark accreditation scheme will replace the discredited Quality Mark which closed last year.
Construction minister Alun Michael has launched a “Trustmark” accreditation scheme to protect consumers from cowboy builders.
Trustmark is now open to applications from companies, and will become fully operational in the autumn. It replaces the failed Quality Mark scheme, which closed last year due to lack of applications.
Making his first public announcement as construction minister, Alun Michael urged companies to sign up and support the scheme. Michael said: “Only enthusiastic and consistent construction industry involvement and support will make Trustmark a success and help to drive up standards. I’m glad the government has supported and facilitated this scheme but now it’s over to you.”
The government has pledged £2m to set up and support Trustmark in its early stages. The scheme, which will be administered by approved trade associations, is expected to become self-financing within two years.
To be registered with Trustmark, a firm will have to allow the quality of its work to be regularly audited, and must sign up to an industry code of practice and rigorous complaints handling process.
