How to Check a Trade is Trustworthy
Hiring the right tradesperson is a critical step in ensuring your home improvement project is completed to a high standard, on time, and within budget. While there are many skilled and professional trades available, it's important to take the time to check a trade is trustworthy before committing to any agreement. Failing to vet a tradesperson thoroughly can lead to poor workmanship, hidden costs, or even safety hazards in your home. This guide will walk you through the key steps to ensure you're working with a reliable professional, from checking reviews and credentials to meeting them face-to-face. By following these steps, you can confidently hire a tradesperson and avoid unnecessary stress or complications.
Researching a Trade Online
The internet is a powerful tool for finding out if a tradesperson is trustworthy. These days, most reputable trades have some kind of online presence, whether it's a website, social media page, or a profile on a trusted platform like BookaBuilderUK. By exploring their online footprint, you can gain valuable insights into their professionalism, reputation, and the quality of their work—before you even make contact.
Check for Verified Reviews
Let’s be honest—everyone can claim they’re the best at what they do, but customer reviews are where the truth comes out. Verified reviews, such as those found on platforms like BookaBuilderUK, allow you to see real feedback from homeowners who’ve worked with that tradesperson before. It’s worth taking the time to read through these reviews carefully. Look for recurring themes—are people praising their punctuality, attention to detail, or excellent communication? Or are there red flags, like complaints about delays or incomplete work?
Another tip is to check how the tradesperson responds to reviews, especially negative ones. A professional and trustworthy trade will address complaints constructively, showing they care about their reputation and their customers. This can be a great indicator of how they’ll handle your project if things don’t go perfectly.
Look for Online Portfolios
A strong online portfolio is another great sign of a tradesperson you can trust. Many trades take pride in their work and showcase it through photos and project descriptions on their website or social media pages. This not only gives you a glimpse into their skill level but also helps you determine if they’ve handled projects similar to yours. For example, if you’re planning a bathroom renovation, seeing pictures of previous bathrooms they’ve worked on will give you confidence in their abilities.
Don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper. Look for details like "before and after" shots that highlight their craftsmanship or captions that explain the challenges they overcame in the project. A well-maintained online portfolio shows they’re organised, transparent, and committed to quality. If their social media or website hasn’t been updated in years, it could be a sign they’re not as invested in their business—or their clients.
Do a Quick Background Check
While you’re online, take a moment to check for any additional information about the tradesperson or their business. Search for their business name alongside words like “complaints” or “scam” to see if anything concerning comes up. You can also check if they’re listed on trusted directories, which often require tradespeople to meet certain standards before they’re approved.
Finally, make sure their contact information is easy to find and professional. A legitimate tradesperson will typically provide a business email, phone number, and sometimes even an office address. If the only way to reach them is through vague social media messages, it might be a red flag.
By taking these steps, you can feel much more confident in your initial research. A trustworthy trade will have nothing to hide, and their online presence should reflect their professionalism and commitment to delivering excellent results.
Credentials and Certifications
When you’re looking to check a trade is trustworthy, their credentials and certifications are one of the most reliable indicators of their professionalism. A reputable tradesperson won’t just rely on word-of-mouth; they’ll also have the proper qualifications and memberships that demonstrate their expertise and commitment to high standards.
Verify Trade Certifications
One of the first things you should ask for is proof of their certifications. Depending on the type of work they’ll be doing, different qualifications might apply. For instance, if they’re working on gas appliances, they should be registered with Gas Safe. If it’s electrical work, look for certification from bodies like NICEIC. These certifications are more than just a badge—they’re proof that the tradesperson has undergone rigorous training and meets the safety and quality standards required for their trade.
Don’t be afraid to ask for evidence of these certifications. Any trustworthy tradesperson will be happy to share their credentials with you. Many even display them on their website, business cards, or van, so you may be able to spot them during your initial research.
Membership in Professional Organisations
Another good indicator of trustworthiness is membership in professional organisations or trade bodies. Groups like the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) set high entry standards and require members to adhere to strict codes of practice. Being part of such an organisation shows that the tradesperson takes their craft seriously and is committed to maintaining a good reputation within their industry.
It’s always worth checking if the trade body has a public directory where you can confirm the membership. This simple step can give you added peace of mind that you’re hiring a legitimate professional.
Ask About Licensing and Insurance
Licensing and insurance are non-negotiable when it comes to hiring a tradesperson. A trustworthy trade will have the appropriate licences for their work and valid public liability insurance to protect both you and themselves in case something goes wrong. Without insurance, you could be left footing the bill for accidents or damage that occur during the project.
When discussing the project with your tradesperson, make it a point to ask for proof of their insurance policy. Check that it’s up-to-date and that the coverage is sufficient for the type of work they’ll be carrying out. A professional will understand why you’re asking and won’t hesitate to provide the information.
By confirming certifications, memberships, and insurance, you can quickly filter out unreliable trades and focus on those who have the credentials to back up their skills. This step is crucial to protect your home, your budget, and your peace of mind throughout the project.
Ask for References
Even after checking a trade’s online presence and certifications, there’s nothing quite like hearing directly from someone who’s worked with them before. Asking for references is a tried-and-true way to confirm a tradesperson’s reliability and the quality of their work. A trustworthy professional will have no issue providing references from past clients—they might even have testimonials ready to share with you upfront.
When you get in touch with a reference, don’t just ask whether they were happy with the finished job. Dig a little deeper. For example:
- Was the project completed on time and within budget?
- Did the tradesperson communicate clearly and keep them updated throughout?
- Were there any unexpected issues, and how were they handled?
- Would they hire the same tradesperson again for future work?
The answers to these questions can give you a clearer picture of what it’s like to work with the tradesperson, from the first meeting to the completion of the project. If you hear consistent praise for their punctuality, problem-solving skills, or attention to detail, it’s a good sign you’ve found someone you can trust.
Learn to Spot Red Flags
While most tradespeople will have satisfied clients to point you to, it’s worth paying attention to any hesitation or vague answers when asking for references. For example, if they seem reluctant to provide references or if the references they give you don’t feel entirely genuine, it’s worth taking a step back and reconsidering. A reputable tradesperson should be proud of their work and willing to connect you with past clients.
If you’d like more tips on effectively communicating with your tradesperson, check out our detailed guide: How to Choose and Communicate with Your Contractor. This resource can help you establish clear expectations right from the start.
Asking for references is a simple but powerful step in the process of checking whether a trade is trustworthy. It helps you go beyond the surface to ensure you’re working with someone who not only delivers great results but also respects their clients throughout the process.
Tools for Hiring Securely
In today’s world, finding and hiring a trustworthy tradesperson has become much easier thanks to online tools and platforms that are designed to connect homeowners with reputable trades. These tools not only help you check a trade is trustworthy but also provide a layer of protection when it comes to payments and project management. By using the right resources, you can hire with confidence and avoid unnecessary risks.
Find Vetted Trades on BookaBuilderUK
One of the best ways to ensure you’re working with a reliable professional is to use a trusted platform like BookaBuilderUK. On BookaBuilderUK, tradespeople are vetted to ensure they meet high standards of quality and professionalism. You can browse their profiles, read verified reviews, and view portfolios of completed work—all in one place. This makes it easy to find a trade who suits your project’s specific needs.
The platform also allows you to compare multiple tradespeople, helping you make an informed decision without spending hours searching independently. By choosing a trade through BookaBuilderUK, you’re already starting with someone who’s been pre-screened and recommended by others.
Use Safe Payment Methods
Another important tool for hiring securely is ensuring you use a safe and transparent payment method. Avoid cash payments wherever possible, as they offer no traceability if something goes wrong. Instead, opt for secure payment platforms like SafePay, which is available through BookaBuilderUK. SafePay holds the funds securely until you’re satisfied with the work, giving you peace of mind that your money is protected.
To learn more about how SafePay works and why it’s a great option for paying trades securely, check out our detailed guide here: How to Pay My Builder Securely with SafePay.
Stay Organised During the Process
Using tools to stay organised can also go a long way in making the hiring process stress-free. Keep a record of all your communication, contracts, and agreements with the tradesperson. Platforms like BookaBuilderUK often provide messaging features that allow you to keep everything in one place, which is especially useful if there are any disputes or misunderstandings later on.
These tools and platforms make hiring a tradesperson a much safer and more transparent process. By taking advantage of them, you can avoid unnecessary risks, ensure your money is secure, and focus on the success of your project.
Coordinating Multiple Trades
If your project requires the expertise of more than one tradesperson, such as a plumber, electrician, and carpenter working together on a kitchen renovation, things can get a little more complex. Coordinating multiple trades can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can ensure the process runs smoothly and efficiently.
Plan Ahead and Set Clear Expectations
Good planning is key when managing multiple trades. Start by outlining the scope of your project and understanding how the work will flow. For example, certain tasks—like electrical wiring—may need to be completed before other jobs can begin. A clear timeline will help you identify when each trade needs to be on-site and reduce the risk of delays.
Make sure every tradesperson is aware of their role in the project and understands your expectations. Provide them with all the details they need, such as access to the site, deadlines, and any specific requirements. Communication is essential, so keep everyone updated on progress and any changes to the plan.
Appoint a Lead Tradesperson or Project Manager
If juggling multiple trades feels overwhelming, consider appointing a lead tradesperson or hiring a project manager to oversee the work. A lead tradesperson, such as a builder or contractor, can take responsibility for coordinating the team and ensuring the project stays on track. This can help avoid misunderstandings and save you time.
Alternatively, platforms like BookaBuilderUK can help you find experienced tradespeople who are used to working as part of a team. Some trades may even have project management experience and can take on this role for you.
Keep Communication Centralised
When multiple trades are involved, communication can easily get complicated. To stay organised, use a single method of communication—whether it’s a group chat, email thread, or messaging platform like the one available on BookaBuilderUK. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and reduces the risk of missed messages or miscommunication.
Monitor Progress Regularly
While you don’t need to micromanage, it’s important to monitor progress regularly to ensure the project is moving forward as planned. Touch base with each tradesperson to confirm that tasks are being completed on schedule and to address any issues that arise. If you notice delays or conflicts between trades, address them promptly to keep things on track.
For more tips on managing complex home improvement projects, take a look at our guide: Coordinating Multiple Projects at Once. It’s packed with advice to help you stay in control and stress-free.
By staying organised, communicating clearly, and planning ahead, you can successfully coordinate multiple trades and bring your vision to life without unnecessary headaches.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to home improvement projects, taking the time to check a trade is trustworthy is one of the most important steps you can take. From researching online reviews and portfolios to verifying certifications, asking for references, and conducting in-person meetings, these steps ensure you’re hiring someone reliable who will deliver quality results.
Remember to watch out for red flags, like demands for large upfront payments or a lack of written contracts, and use tools like BookaBuilderUK to find vetted tradespeople and manage your project securely. Platforms like these, along with secure payment options like SafePay, take the stress out of hiring and give you the confidence that your project is in safe hands.
Whether you’re tackling a small repair or a large-scale renovation, following the tips in this guide will help you hire with confidence and avoid unnecessary risks. By doing your due diligence, you’ll not only protect your investment but also ensure your home improvement project runs smoothly from start to finish.