The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued a set of tips for people finding traders via a recommendation site.
Trader recommendation sites are websites and apps that help people to find and connect with traders, such as builders, plumbers and heating specialists.
The CMA said it has published a set of tips to help people choose a trader recommendation site that safely connects them to a trustworthy trader and protects them if things go wrong.
It stated: “Don’t rely solely on claims of ‘trustworthiness’ made on trader recommendation sites – many sites use terms like ‘trusted’, ‘reliable’, or ‘expert’ to describe traders, but these may not be true or verified
“Choose a trader recommendation site that verifies traders by ensuring they have the necessary licenses, insurances and certifications
“Make sure the site has a strong complaints process and check whether they offer support in resolving disputes
“Check how trader recommendation sites monitor traders and sanction poor behaviour, and if rogue traders are removed
“Be cautious about reviews – check if they are badged as being from verified customers
“Once you have found a reliable site, compare traders before deciding – don’t rush into selecting a trader, but review several, taking into account important details like experience, qualifications, certifications and verified customer reviews”
The CMA added that it has also finalised its advice for trader recommendation sites as it pushes the sector to ensure all businesses comply with consumer law. This means all sites should have a clear idea of their obligations under consumer law, it noted, meaning they can offer their service responsibly and make sure they’re acting on the right side of the law.
With the CMA set to receive stronger enforcement powers from next spring, it said that trader recommendation sites that are not complying with their obligations risk facing a formal investigation.
Hayley Fletcher, interim senior director of Consumer Protection, said: “Millions of people use these sites to find a trusted and skilled trader, but that’s not always what they get. We’re arming consumers with a handy set of tips to use while navigating trader recommendation sites to help them find a legitimate and reliable trader.
“We’ve also issued advice for the sector – meaning sites should be entirely clear about what they should and shouldn’t do when it comes to consumer law. Not only does this help protect consumers, it also means that the thousands of reliable and honest professionals who rely on these sites to connect with customers are competing on a level playing field.
“We expect all trader recommendation sites to carefully read the advice and review their practices. We’ll be monitoring the sector to see if more action is needed.”