You may have seen announced recently a new ombudsmen scheme for the double glazing industry (the DGCOS) which has been undergoing extensive trials in the UK for the last four years.
Members will have to undergo a tight vetting process, involving submitting details of past orders (at a cost per submission) as well as being able to prove the worthiness of a 10 year guarantee and possession of public liability insurance for installation.
The main benefit to the consumer will be the deposit protection offered by the bodies independent association rather than relying on the companies themselves.
But the Federation of Small Businesses reckons that consumers should not rule out local companies that won't be able to afford the high membership fees and ongoing expenses, stating the best route to getting a reliable company is still to take personal recommendations and obtain several quotes before making a decision.
Home owners can already protect themselves now by using their credit card to pay for deposits or whole jobs. The Consumer Credit Act 1974 makes the credit card company equally liable for any breach of contract. The contract must be between £100 and £30,000 to qualify.
So whilst a national ombudsmen scheme may be a long way off and even then, exclude many local companies who would have benefited most, Window-Quoter is always your best option - providing you with instant online quotes and first hand testimonials from other homeowners, to help you choose the right local company.
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