UK Government launches scheme to combat rogue builders

The UK government has launched a new Approved Code scheme and a Trusted Payments app to combat rogue traders and ‘cowboy builders’. The initiative aims to protect homeowners from unfair practices, such as abandoned projects, substandard work, and upfront payment scams.

Under the Approved Code scheme, participating businesses must demonstrate higher standards of transparency, customer service, and dispute resolution. To provide financial security, the Trusted Payments app will allow payments to be released incrementally, linked to the completion of specific project milestones. This measure is intended to prevent tradespeople from abandoning work after receiving initial funds.

Government research indicates that in 2024, consumers lost more than £10.3 billion due to overpriced costs or unfair practices in home and garden maintenance. One in three people experiencing issues with home improvements faced extra costs, losing an average of £750. Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated the measures are designed to protect families from stress and disruption while supporting hardworking, legitimate tradespeople.