Avoid Cowboy Plumbers

Avoid the Cowboy Plumbers

Billy Bodger or Percy Pro? Find out how to tell them apart...

Without the proper qualifications gas can be a killer, recent estimates by CORGI put the number of cowboy plumbers trading in the UK at 20,000.

Also, did you know that new legislation states that for certain jobs that affect the plumbing or central heating of your property, then you must employ a plumber or heating contractor who is a member of a Competent Person Scheme?

How to spot a Rogue Trader

  • If you decide to choose a local plumber take a look at the phone number, do they have a landline? Or is it just a mobile number? It’s unlikely a cowboy plumber will give out a landline number with a local prefix.
  • Speak to your friends or neighbours, can they recommend a good plumber or have they heard of the plumber you’re considering?
  • Gas works – Ask for their CORGI registration number and check it at their website (trustcorgi.com). A plumber must be CORGI registered to work on live gas installations.
  • Oil heating works – Check for OFTEC registration, similar to CORGI you can be safe in the knowledge that the engineer is competent and insured towork on oil boilers and installations.
  • Can they start immediately?  A good reputable plumber will always be busy.
  • Do they offer you a discount for ‘cash’. A sure sign of a rouge trader.
  • Can they offer at least 2 references? If not, beware.
  • Do they provide a written, itemised quotation on company headed paperwork?
  • Are they polite and presentable? A professional tradesperson will more than likely demonstrate the same traits in their work.
  • Trust your instincts, if you’re not quite sure then don’t risk it.

If you’re still unsure about a local tradesperson professional companies like British Gas provide plumbing and boiler services nationwide.