When it comes to finding a trustworthy tradesperson for home improvements, many consumers turn to online recommendation platforms like Checkatrade. With promises of “guaranteed” traders, “rigorous checks,” and “recommendations you can rely on,” Checkatrade positions itself as the go-to resource for connecting with vetted professionals. However, recent customer experiences suggest that rogue traders are slipping through the cracks, leaving unsuspecting homeowners vulnerable to subpar work and financial losses.
Inadequate Vetting Procedures
Despite Checkatrade’s assurances of thorough vetting, some customers have discovered alarming red flags about their hired tradespeople post-contract. One woman reported that the workman she hired through the platform for a £5,000 roof repair had a history of violent assault and an outstanding county court judgment against him – information she easily uncovered through a simple online search.
This incident raises serious questions about the depth and efficacy of Checkatrade’s screening process. If a customer can unearth criminal records and legal issues with minimal effort, why aren’t these factors caught during the platform’s supposedly rigorous checks?
Fake Reviews and Intimidation Tactics
In addition to vetting concerns, some Checkatrade users have reported encounters with traders using dubious tactics to maintain positive reputations on the platform. One customer claimed that after leaving a negative review for a roofing firm that failed to complete the job, a stranger arrived at his doorstep and threatened unspecified consequences unless he removed the unfavorable feedback.
Fearful for his safety, the customer complied, only to later discover that the partial roof work was dangerously substandard. Despite alerting Checkatrade to the intimidation and shoddy craftsmanship, he asserts that the firm remained on the platform for months with an impressive 9/10 rating.
Insufficient Oversight and Delayed Action
These troubling accounts suggest a pattern of insufficient oversight and delayed action by Checkatrade in addressing customer complaints and removing problematic traders. While the company claims to have removed 1,000 substandard traders in the past year, the persistence of rogue operators on the platform indicates that current measures may not be enough to safeguard consumers.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has recently taken notice of the high volume of complaints against traders sourced through online recommendation sites. In response, the regulator has ordered platforms like Checkatrade to enhance customer protections, including investigating and removing traders who fail to meet standards.
The Challenges of the Roofing Trade
Roofing work appears to be a particular pain point for customers, with numerous reports of cowboy builders and astronomical repair costs linked to Checkatrade recommendations. The company acknowledges the challenges posed by the roofing industry and claims to have implemented stricter vetting procedures, rejecting over 25% of roofer membership applications this year.
However, these measures may provide little comfort to homeowners already grappling with the financial and emotional fallout of substandard work. One woman faced a staggering £13,000 bill to rectify damage caused by two separate sets of cowboy builders, one of whom was recommended by Checkatrade.
The Need for Heightened Vigilance
As online trade recommendation platforms continue to grow in popularity, it is crucial that companies like Checkatrade prioritize customer protection above all else. While no system is foolproof, a commitment to continuous improvement in vetting procedures, prompt action against offending traders, and transparent communication with consumers can go a long way in minimizing the risks posed by rogue operators.
For homeowners, these cautionary tales serve as a reminder to approach online recommendations with heightened vigilance. Conducting independent research, soliciting multiple quotes, and thoroughly vetting prospective tradespeople can help mitigate the chances of falling victim to subpar work or outright scams.
As the old adage goes, “trust, but verify.” In the age of online trade platforms, this sentiment has never been more relevant. While companies like Checkatrade strive to connect consumers with reliable professionals, the ultimate responsibility for due diligence may still rest on the shoulders of the homeowner. By staying informed, proactive, and discerning, consumers can navigate the home improvement landscape with greater confidence and better protect themselves from the perils of rogue traders.
