We have all heard stories of tradespeople who quote an unbelievable price and then fail to deliver. When you are redecorating, you want to know that you’ll be getting quality workmanship, a fair price and excellent customer service.
But how do you know whether your decorator is trustworthy or a cowboy? That is where TrustMark can help separate the quality tradespeople from the rest.
What is TrustMark?
TrustMark is a UK government scheme that aims to ensure that homeowners and tenants know that they will receive a quality service from a tradesperson or company.
A searchable list of TrustMark companies can be found on the TrustMark website, and businesses and tradespeople who achieve it can display the logo on their vans, websites and marketing material.
The TrustMark shows that a company has undergone stringent checks on work done, has been vetted to a high standard and delivers good customer service.
What do decorators have to do to achieve a TrustMark?
Not all decorators and painters in Tonbridge, southeast London and the surrounding area are registered with TrustMark. To be registered, there are two main elements that need to be achieved: the Code of Conduct and the Framework Operating Requirements.
The Code of Conduct
This outlines responsibilities regarding service, trading practices and competence that need to be adhered to. The Code of Conduct applies to several aspects of the customer’s relationship to the company and the work done, including:
- What is needed on paperwork such as quotes, invoices and contracts
- Agreeing work with a customer
- How complaints are dealt with
- Competence on the job
- Surveys and design work
- What business information should be publicly available on your website
- Checking that the customer is happy with the work
Framework Operating Requirements
The framework operating requirements vary depending on the trade, and are the purview of the Scheme Providers. A Scheme Provider is an officially recognised trade body or certified body that can inspect the workmanship and conduct of the trade company.
In the case of painters and decorators, Dulux Select Decorators is one of the Scheme Providers. It puts companies through their paces with an assessment to become a member.
They look at both the quality of the finished work and the level and quality of service to the customer.
Why do quality and service matter for painting and decorating?
Poor service and low levels of competency from a tradesperson can have significant impacts on the customer.
Many tradespeople rely on word of mouth for their business, so shoddy workmanship or a difficult working relationship can seriously damage their reputation.
TrustMark means your decorator has been properly vetted, which can save you money and reduce additional stress.
A quality TrustMark tradesperson will do their best to achieve the following:
- A high standard of finished work using the correct materials
- A good customer relationship
- Fair and clear pricing
- Timely work
- Limit the cleaning up afterwards
- Less hassle and stress
When using a painter and decorator, trust matters, especially when you are letting them into your home.
That is why TrustMark exists: to help customers choose a reliable, fully vetted painter and decorator to get the job done and give you reassurance and peace of mind.