Lead & Trade guide
Red flags before paying a deposit
Warning signs to check before sending money to a trade business.
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.
Pause if the details are vague
Be careful if there is no written scope, no business details, no clear materials reason or pressure to pay immediately.
Ask what the deposit covers and when the work is due to start.
Keep payment traceable
Avoid large cash payments. Use traceable methods where possible and keep receipts, 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.