How do I find a decent plumber, electrician, etc. ?

[CW1]

Hi, I saw a van the other day that advertised a web site about quality workmen, plumbers and the like, and I can't remember what it was ! I need a lot of work doing (new bathroom, combi boiler, some electrical work, and loads more !) and I'm getting fed up ploughing through local papers, yell, etc. British Gas used to have a list of "recommended" workmen on their site but seems to have gone now. Does anyone know the name of this website ?

[Ethel]

That is not the way to find reliable workmen, sadly.

Advertising is just 'puff' and hype.

Talk to your neighbours and friends and see if you can get a recommenation. If no joy there, try asking the planning department at your local council - they may be able to recommend someone 'unofficially'.

[CW1]

Ethel, While I'd agree with you generally, I think now it's recognised there's just SO many so-called "cowboys" about, there has to be a better way than "sticking a pin" in the Yellow Pages. Think the name I was thinking of was homepro.com. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be a plumber in my area, and I am getting fed up with the 1� hour visits, followed by promises to drop brochures off/give quotes and I never hear any more. My neighbours aren't much help - they either use family (who did my kitchen before I moved in, and can't say I'm overly impressed !), or tell me "yeah, a good plumber's hard to find". Very helpful). So I may well give your last suggestion a go - thanks.

[janoel]

Just seen a site called Myworkman where they get in touch with plumbers, builders etc. in your area and you receive quotes via email. Not sure if it's any good but I think I would give it a try myself for the next job I need. Used to be a site called Toolbox but I can't find it at the moment.

[raysparx]

Hi CW1

I think the site you are probably looking for is the TRUSTMARK one it is a government backed scheme,for electricians,when you go on there you could try the NAPIT link,I only say them because thae are who I am registered with,but there are several others,but the best way to find a decent tradesman is word of mouth,ask your friends & family first, good luck, Ray

[raysparx]

Hi again CW1, just a quick line about your cocerns about cowboy builders,I have been involved in the building trade over 40 years and I can honestly say most builders are genuine people who take pride in there work, I have come across about 6 bad builders in that time,most good ones don't need to advertise,I haven't put an advert anywhere in the last 22 years since I went self employed,so don't be put off by certain TV programmes,that put us all in a bad light,hope this gives you a bit more hope. Ray

[Yodel]

Hi CW1. Try the website www.homepro.com (or link through from www.fairtrades.co.uk).

[pilotlight]

CW1, Just to add a little more to the previous good advice. If you are considering having any gas related work done, please make sure that the company you employ are c.o.r.g.i. registered.

[WendyS]

You could try contacting these professional associations which might be able to provide a list of members in your area:

National Federation of Roofing Contractors: Tel: [phone], (www.nfrc.co.uk)
Federation of Master Builders: Tel: [phone] (www.findabuilder.co.uk)
Institute of Plumbers: Tel: [phone] (www.iphe.org.uk)
Central Heating Engineeers: Tel:[phone] (www.corgi-gas-safety.com)