Lead & Trade guide
How to avoid rogue traders
Red flags to watch for and sensible steps to protect yourself before agreeing work.
Edited by Lead & Trade using general UK hiring, quoting and platform privacy guidance. This is practical guidance, not legal advice or a guarantee of workmanship.
Slow the decision down
Be careful with doorstep offers, today-only discounts or pressure to start immediately. Good trades understand that homeowners need time to compare quotes.
Ask for written details
Get the scope, price, payment stages and business contact details in writing. For regulated work, ask about relevant qualifications and certification.
Pay sensibly
Avoid large cash deposits. For larger work, agree staged payments tied to progress and keep records of invoices and messages.
Practical checklist
- Write down the job scope, access notes, timing and budget range before asking for quotes.
- Keep your messages, photos, quote changes and payment notes in one place.
- Ask for written details where the work involves safety, certification, specialist materials or staged payments.
- Use Lead & Trade privacy-safe job posting so your full contact details are not public.