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Storm Damage Repairs Birmingham

The warning follows a number of reports from households who have found tradespeople "touting for business" in areas where properties were affected by the storm.
Leeway Home Improvements Ltd
0121 6666369
Keys Court
Birmingham
Architectural Supplies Lowndes Ltd
0121 7725271
51 Auckland Road
Birmingham
Saifee Hardware
0121 4404188
545 Moseley Road
Birmingham
Branch Bmn Ltd
0121 3334120
153 Dollman Street
Birmingham
Rozia Hardware
0121 6225266
St. Martins Market
Birmingham
Plumbing Hardware Diy Centre
0121 7666488
612 Coventry Road
Birmingham
R & R
0121 3596581
29 Revesby Walk
Birmingham
R K Home Improvements
0121 7724622
5 Heybarnes Road
Birmingham
Mackinnon & Bailey
0121 6432233
119 Floodgate Street
Birmingham
F G Discount Store
0121 3275994
746 Alum Rock Road
Birmingham
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Storm Damage Repairs

Homeowners are recommended to use Trustmark accredited tradespeople or those recommended by friends and relatives

Households that suffered damage to their homes following last week's storm are being warned to watch out for rogue tradesmen, the government announced today.

The warning follows a number of reports from households who have found tradespeople "touting for business" in areas where properties were affected by the storm.

"If you have suffered storm damage to your house or garden, you might be tempted to accept the first offer that comes along, but this doesn't always guarantee that you'll be pleased with the result," commented Carol Brady, operations manager for Consumer Direct, the government's advice service.

"We are advising people to contact their insurance company in the first instance, and follow some simple steps to reduce the risk of being ripped off."

Tips for organising repairs to a damaged property

  • Before organising any repairs, contact your insurance company.

    Consumer Direct advised: "Some insurance companies may arrange approved traders to repair damage on your behalf, but if you organise your own repairs, check what will be covered."

  • As well as getting recommendations for tradespeople from family, friends and neighbours, homeowners can also look for a Trustmark-registered firm ( www.trustmark.org.uk )

    Additionally, Consumer Direct advises people to be "very cautious" if they employ a tradesperson who makes an unsolicited visit.

  • Get three written quotes (not estimates) from at least three traders.

  • If you can, make staged payments, ideally keeping back a most of the payment until the repair job has been completed and you are happy with it. That way any defects can be put right without the need to make a claim or go to court for compensation.

  • Paying for goods or services over £100 by credit card will offer extra protection, as the credit card company may be able to claim your money back on your behalf if the trader fails to honour the contract, as well as compensating you.

    For more advice on household goods and property repairs see www.consumerdirect.gov.uk

    • Click here to read more from aboutproperty.co.uk