While a BBC Inside Out investigation has cast doubt on ‘trustworthy trader’ websites such as Rated People and MyBuilder, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is on hand to make sure consumers make the best choices when it comes to employing a plumbing and heating professional.
The BBC investigation targeted a number of websites claiming to provide consumers with the details of skilled and professional tradespeople. While many of these types of sites have vigorous screening processes in place, an Inside Out reporter managed to set up a handyman profile on both Rated People and MyBuilder, while also submitting fake positive feedback and five star ratings on his own listing. With the help of friends, he could even post and win bogus jobs, making his profile look all the more legitimate.
Kevin Wellman, CEO of the CIPHE, said: “The CIPHE has been in effect running one of the original ‘trustworthy trader’ sites through its online ‘Find a Plumber’ search tool. We know first-hand how important it is to have the trust of the consumer and uphold high standards of workmanship.
“However, over the years we have seen a number of big, money making, online portals grow, fronted by celebrities and big marketing budgets, offering to match consumers with tradespeople in their area. While there is no doubt these types of online tools can have their place, it is also implied that all tradespeople have been pre-vetted for competence, experience and professionalism – something which the CIPHE does in every single case – and something which this report has proven does not happen across the board.”