Four traders from Caerphilly County Borough have been accepted into a scheme to help tackle rogue traders.
The Government-endorsed South East Wales Trustmark Scheme helps people find reputable businesses to carry out work in their home by providing a list of approved traders.
JPR Phoenix Ltd from Hengoed, Bill and Ben Landscapes from Nelson, CP General Services Ltd from Caerphilly and Castle Construction (Caerphilly) Ltd from Bedwas were awarded official accreditation for the Trustmark scheme at a recent awards ceremony.
Councillor Colin Mann, deputy leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, spoke at the ceremony.
He said: “This scheme is excellent in that it gives consumers the confidence they deserve to employ reputable tradespeople to carry out work in their homes.
“The financial, emotional and psychological costs to those who fall prey to rogue traders cannot be fully quantified, and therefore it is especially pleasing that the Trustmark scheme is helping to take the lottery element out of choosing a trader.
“I am full of praise for initiatives such as this which are of genuine benefit to our communities, and I would encourage any local traders who feel they fit the required criteria to look into signing up to the scheme.”
To achieve accreditation, business owners are vetted and monitored by Trading Standards and Exor Management Services.
Carl Phillips, of CP General Services Ltd, said: “Seeking Trustmark accreditation for my business was an absolute must.
“This local authority backed scheme undoubtedly gives companies a competitive edge in these difficult financial times, while providing a reliable, honest service to members of the public.
“I have definitely gained business contracts as a result of signing up to the Trustmark scheme, and would encourage other local traders to seek to do the same.”
For more information on the South East Wales Trustmark Scheme and for a list of approved businesses visit tssew.trustmark.org.uk or contact the Trustmark team on 08719 307 274.