Bridget Fox welcomes TrustMark to crack down on cowboys. (Islington Liberal Democrats)

Islington Liberal Democrats <Islington_ld@cix.co.uk>

Bridget Fox welcomes TrustMark to crack down on cowboys.

February 15, 2010 12:00 AM

Bridget Fox with Ray Horwood, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors at Roofing House, Finsbury.

Bridget Fox, Parliamentary Campaigner for Islington South and Finsbury, visited the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) to discuss how TrustMark, the trusted traders guarantee, helps people find reliable, trustworthy tradesmen to carry out repairs on their home.

Ray Horwood, Chief Executive of the NFRC, told Bridget about the issues the industry faces, from small and medium sized businesses losing out on payment from bigger firms, to tackling climate change through the use of solar panels and "active roofs" which use sustainable energy.

Based at Roofing House in Finsbury, the NFRC works with the Government to raise standards in the roofing industry. The trade association ensures all its traders are working to high standards and are only awarded the TrustMark guarantee once their work has been rigorously inspected.

A Government-endorsed standard, the TrustMark guarantee means a job will always be completed and you don't have to worry about being overcharged or receiving sub-standard workmanship.

Bridget Fox said

"The NFRC do a great job ensuring people have access to trustworthy tradesmen. It's so important to have that guarantee, especially when you're paying large amounts for work to be done to your home.

"They are also working to promote "active roofs," which will provide households will electricity, hot water and heating. Tackling climate change is vital and roofs on houses and businesses are key to tapping into and using natural energy.

"Solar panels and green roofs will help people save money on their utility bills whilst making a huge difference to the planet. Lib Dem-run Islington Council have added eco-friendly roofs to schools and community centres in the area already as part of their Climate Change Partnership. The promotion of these in other areas on businesses and homes is vital if we are serious about tackling climate change."

Trustmark-registered traders can be found at http://www.trustmark.org.uk/