UK Plans Database Of Trusted Traders To Protect Homeowners From Rogue Builders

The UK government plans to create a database of trusted traders and a payment system with greater safeguards for people renovating their homes, according to BBC reported. Traders who sign up would need to meet standards on customer service, transparency and dispute resolution. The move comes after cases including Sheri Ingram, who said a builder took £14,000 and vanished, and Barry and Shelley Sawkins, who lost more than £30,000 to a rogue trader. The government said more than a quarter of people who carried out home improvements in the past 18 months had problems, and cited a survey suggesting customers lost more than £10bn in 2024 on home and garden maintenance services due to losses, overpriced costs or unfair practices.