A draft Consumer Bill of Rights has recently been unveiled and for the first time it includes legislation that will give people the right to redress over something agreed ‘verbally’.
The MP advised homeowners to use a device such as an iPhone to avoid any difference in recollection of the conversation. The Bill may not become law until 2015 but in the meantime it has caused concern in various quarters.
Brian Berry, the Chief Executive of the FMB, said: "The Government is right to want to increase protection for consumers against rogue traders and to ensure they are better informed about their rights. However, the idea that consumers will be willing and able to record verbal agreements on their iPhones is misplaced.
The best way for consumers wanting to protect themselves when commissioning home improvement or repair work is to insist on a written contract. This simple requirement will weed out the cowboys from the professional builders.”
ContractsXpert software does exactly that. It inspires confidence with accurate and professional FMB-authored building contracts that protect both the builder and the customer. Everyone knows from the outset what is going to happen – the work covered, its value, obligations, payment timings, defect, termination, warranties, insurance, dispute resolution and more.
HBXL’s Joanna Mulgrew explains, “The contract can actually be used to clinch a project. Consumers are happier knowing where they stand. Written it Plain English, the ContractsXpert building contracts are thorough without being scary.” She adds, “Like Mr Berry from the FMB, we’re sure that a straightforward written contract is what consumers should want from their builder – they don’t need to go running for their Dictaphone!”
HBXL would be interested in the views of builders. Let us know what you think on the subject.
