Checks to make before you hire a tradesperson
Homeowner
A few simple checks before you hire save the vast majority of problems. None of them take long, and a good tradesperson will be happy to answer. Here's a practical checklist to run through before you say yes.
Verify credentials and insurance
For gas work, the engineer must be on the Gas Safe Register — ask for the card and check the number. For electrical work, use someone registered with a Part P scheme like NICEIC or NAPIT, who can self-certify the job and give you a certificate.
Ask for public liability insurance, and for limited companies, check them on Companies House. On Rank My Builder these registrations are verified before a trade earns a Verified badge, but it's always sensible to confirm for yourself too.
Get it in writing
Ask for a written, itemised quote that says exactly what's included — materials, labour, removal of waste, and making good afterwards. Verbal figures are where most disputes start.
For larger jobs, agree a stage-payment schedule tied to visible progress, and keep all messages and paperwork. Confirm who's responsible for any planning permission, building regulations sign-off or certificates.
Compare and check reviews
Get two or three quotes for the same scope so you're comparing like for like. Read the trade's reviews and, for bigger jobs, ask to see recent local work or speak to a past customer.
Trust your instincts. If communication is poor or answers are evasive before any money changes hands, it rarely improves once the job starts.
FAQs
How do I check a Gas Safe or electrical registration?
Ask for the registration number and check it on the official register — the Gas Safe Register for gas, and the relevant scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT) for electrics. A genuine trade will happily show you their card.
Do I need to check insurance for a small job?
It's good practice for any job, but it matters most for anything structural, at height, or involving gas, water or electrics. Public liability insurance covers damage to your property if something goes wrong.
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three for the same scope is usually enough to spot a fair price and an outlier. On Rank My Builder jobs are capped at 5 quotes, so you get a real choice without being overwhelmed.
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