Things to think of
Codes of practice are important because they help to ensure that you, the consumer, get a fair deal from a trustworthy business. On this page you will find out about the schemes in place throughout the UK.
OFT Approved - Consumer Codes Approval Scheme
When a firm displays the OFT Approved code logo it operates to higher standards of customer protection than the law requires, you can have confidence that OFT Approved code businesses:
- Are committed to treating you fairly if problems arise
- Will guarantee good customer service
- Give you clear-cut information about the goods or services they're selling
- Have user-friendly, straightforward and quick procedures for dealing with customer complaints
- Will use clear and fair contracts
- Will offer free or low cost dispute resolution, such as arbitration or an ombudsman, if you can't agree how to sort out a problem.
There are OFT Approved code businesses in estate agency, domestic removals, car buying, car repair and car servicing, carpet retail, paid for debt management and direct selling, you can search for a business displaying the OFT code approval in your area here: www.oft.gov.uk/advice_and_resources/resource_base/approved-codes/codes-search/
local authority assured trader schemes
Many local authorities run local trader schemes. They aim to give consumers a reliable way of finding trustworthy local businesses.Businesses that sign up to the schemes get support and promotion from their local authority Trading Standards Services, in return for a promise that they will meet their legal obligations and treat their customers fairly.
Your local authority Trading Standards office can tell you if they run a local trader scheme. You can find your nearest Trading Standards office to your postcode by visiting their website
Local Authority Assured Trader Scheme Network
The Local Authority Assured Trader Scheme Network (LAATSN) is owned by Local Authority Trading Standards Services and supported by the OFT. It aims to bring greater consistency to local schemes, and to promote the value of local schemes to those who stand to benefit most - local consumers and businesses.
All the Local Authority Assured Trader Scheme Network (LAATSN) member schemes have to meet minimum standards. The schemes have the common aims of:
- Giving consumers a reliable way of finding businesses they can trust
- Offering a source of help and advice if things go wrong
- Enabling local business to demonstrate that they have signed up to national standards of consumer care
Your local council can tell you if they are a member of this scheme or visit the OFT's website for a list of network members.
TrustmarkTrustMark is a scheme endorsed by the Department of Business, Innovation, and Skill supported by trade bodies and consumer groups to help people find reliable and reputable tradespeople to carry out repair, maintenance and improvement work inside and outside their homes.
TrustMark is a single logo to look out for that covers all the main trades. Firms can be awarded the logo by a TrustMark approved scheme operator, but must comply with Government-endorsed standards covering technical competence and good customer service.
Find out more at www.trustmark.org.uk
