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Safety

Customer Safety Advice

Helpful guidance to help you protect yourself when searching for and hiring a local tradesperson.

MyLocalTrade does not carry out any work and does not guarantee the quality or suitability of any trader. Customers should always make their own checks before hiring a tradesperson.

An eligible moderation decision can be appealed within 30 days of the decision. After 30 days, an appeal might be unavailable. An appeal is reviewed separately and does not automatically reverse the decision. Safety handling may continue independently of an appeal.

Before You Hire

  • Ask for a written quote before any work begins — never agree to work based on a verbal estimate alone
  • Check insurance is in place where relevant — ask the trader to confirm they have public liability insurance
  • Check qualifications for regulated trades such as gas and electrical work
  • For gas work, independently check the Gas Safe Register at gassaferegister.co.uk — do not rely solely on what a trader tells you
  • For electrical work, ask the trader for relevant certification and check with the appropriate body
  • Read reviews from other customers where available
  • Ask friends or family for recommendations where possible

During and After the Job

  • Avoid large upfront payments without a written agreement — be cautious of anyone requesting cash payment in full before work starts
  • Keep records of all communication, quotes, invoices and agreements
  • Do not feel pressured to make quick decisions — take your time
  • Obtain a signed receipt or invoice for any payment made
  • If work is ongoing, agree on payment stages in writing in advance

Spotting Warning Signs

  • Pressure to make a quick decision or sign something immediately
  • Unusually low prices compared to other quotes
  • No fixed business address or verifiable contact details
  • Requests for cash-only payment with no receipt
  • Reluctance to provide written quotes or invoices
  • Claiming to be "in the area" and offering immediate discounts

Reporting Concerns

  • Report suspicious trader behaviour through the MyLocalTrade platform
  • In an emergency, contact the relevant emergency services (999 for police, fire or ambulance)
  • For suspected fraud or scams, report to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk
  • For consumer disputes, contact Citizens Advice at citizensadvice.org.uk