How to avoid being ripped off

Being ripped off, scammed, or paying over the odds is a horrible feeling. While there are lots of great builders, plumbers and garages out there; there are also a whole lot of cowboy traders happy to take your money and bodge the job

Even if you're only thinking of having your driveway done, a conservatory built or even a carpet laid never give job to anyone cold calling at your front door. Chances are they'll be of the 'here today, gone tomorrow' school of traders and want payment in cash up front.

If you want a job done, always go on recommendation if you can. Get at least three quotes in writing along with a list of what's included. So say you're having a new kitchen fitted, check if the price includes taking away the old one or is that down to you? And are materials included in the price?

Don't be afraid to ask for discount. Double glazing companies often give their sales people a margin for discount; if you don't ask you won't get so try and negotiate a lower price. And never feel pressurised into signing contracts on the spot.

Check a trader's credentials; don't just believe what it says on their website or card. A business card may list bogus numbers or addresses and a website is nothing more than an online advert.

If they claim to be a member of a trade organisation is it one you've heard of? Some traders claim to be members of trade groups long after they've been kicked out or their membership's expired so don't be afraid to do check up on them.

Don't be tempted to go for the cheapest quote. Go with who you feel would do the best job, and someone you'd feel comfortable having in your home for a few days. Never pay till the job's done; although if you're signing a contract say for double glazing, you may be expected to pay a deposit of around 10 per cent at this stage. Any decent tradesman will want to make sure you're happy before you pay up.

Rip-off tricks to watch for

The trader who finds more work
This one comes in for one job and finds a long list of others to do, usually on the roof or up in the loft where you can't see them. You'll be warned of the danger of not having the job done which of course he's available and willing to do at an inflated price.

The price that goes up and up
This quote is much cheaper than anyone else so you go for it, but then they try to bump up the price with lots of extras or need somone else to help them which you'll have to pay for.

The VAT rip off
The bill should only include VAT if the trader is registered for it. VAT isn't a little back pocket earner they can add on to boost their profits; so if you're asked to pay VAT; ask for their VAT registration number and if you're suspicious call Customs &Excise (0845 010 9000) to check the number exists.

Sue Hayward is a personal finance and consumer expert, property presenter, journalist and author - www.suehaywardmedia.com