FMB Supports Action Against Cowboy Builders

"Tough action is required to eliminate the scourge of the cowboy builder from the construction industry"

says Ian Davis, Director General of the Federation of Master Builders, on the Jimmy Young programme today.

The FMB supports the Government's intention to improve consumer protection against rogue builders. Its own three point plan includes:

1. A quality certification scheme for builders.
2. Mandatory insurance backed warranty protection for consumers.
3. Reducing VAT to 5% on repair and maintenance work to deter clients from dealing 'cash in hand' with cowboys.

The FMB already operates a warranty scheme for its members but believes that legislation should be introduced to require all builders to provide insurance backed warranties on any work above a minimum value.

Mr Davis went on to say:

"Action on VAT is desperately important to reduce the cowboys' cash advantage. Too many home owners are tempted to deal with cowboys because they try to evade paying VAT - it's a foolish mistake"

His advice to homeowners who plan to have work done on their house is:

1. Get the builder to provide references, speak to former clients and look at his work if possible.
2. Put things in writing. The FMB has simple forms of contract for building work, use these.
3. Ask for the work to be covered by an insurance backed warranty.
4. Don't deal in cash and be very cautious about paying for any work before it's completed.

Further Information

For further information on the subject of this article, please contact:

Brian Flint
Tel: 020 7242 7583

Last modified: 03 February 1999.