How to find a reliable tradesperson: 10 checks before you hire

Last updated: 29 October 2026 · By Zidaan Izzah, founder of Arkadia Connect

Most jobs go fine. The ones that go wrong usually go wrong for the same few reasons: no written quote, no paperwork, a large cash deposit, or someone who wasn't qualified for the work. These ten checks take about 15 minutes and cut out most of the risk.

1. Get at least three quotes

Three quotes give you a feel for the fair price. Be wary of one that is far below the others; it often means something has been left out. Post your job once on Arkadia Connect and local tradespeople come to you, so you don't have to ring round.

2. Check they're on the right register for the job

Some work legally needs a registered person:

• Gas work (boilers, gas fires, cookers): the engineer must be on the Gas Safe Register. Check their ID card number at gassaferegister.co.uk.
• Electrical work such as a new circuit, a new consumer unit (fuse box) or work near a bath or shower: use an electrician registered with a competent person scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT, so the work can be self-certified under building regulations.
• Replacement windows and doors: a FENSA or CERTASS registered installer can certify the work for you.

If they can't show a registration for work that needs one, don't go ahead.

3. Look at real reviews and past work

Read reviews on more than one site, and look for detail ("they fixed the leak under the bath and tidied up") rather than one-line five-stars. Ask for photos of similar jobs, or the number of a recent customer you can call.

4. Get the quote in writing

A proper quote says what will be done, the materials, the total price, whether VAT is included, and roughly how long it will take. An estimate is only a guess; a quote is a fixed price for the work described.

5. Ask about insurance

Public liability insurance covers damage to your home or injury to someone else while they work. Ask to see the certificate, especially for roofing, building and anything structural.

6. Agree how and when you'll pay

For most small jobs you shouldn't need to pay much, if anything, up front. For bigger jobs, a deposit to cover materials is normal, then payments at agreed stages. Avoid paying the whole amount before the work starts, and keep a record of every payment. Paying by card or bank transfer leaves a trail; cash doesn't.

7. Check for a business address and company details

A tradesperson with a real address, a website or a registered company is easier to deal with if something goes wrong. Limited companies can be looked up free on Companies House.

8. Ask about guarantees

Ask how long the work is guaranteed for and what that covers. Some trade bodies also offer insurance-backed guarantees for larger jobs.

9. Don't be rushed

Be very careful with anyone who knocks on your door saying your roof or driveway needs urgent work, or who offers a discount "if you decide today". A good tradesperson will give you time to think. If you agree a contract at home or online, you usually have 14 days to cancel under UK consumer law.

10. Know your rights if something goes wrong

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a service must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If it isn't, you can ask the trader to put it right. Citizens Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk) explains the next steps if that doesn't work.

A quick checklist

• Three written quotes
• Gas Safe, NICEIC/NAPIT or FENSA where needed
• Reviews and photos of past work
• Proof of public liability insurance
• A clear payment plan with no full payment up front
• A guarantee in writing