Neil White: Why is it so hard to find an honest and reliable tradesman?

“Anthony_Rol - if Neil White can afford it then isn't he giving the economy a boost by employing people to do the jobs he doesn't have time or doesn't want to do? Surely just what we need in these tough economic times. We too have been let down on many occasions by tradesmen not turning up as promised or failing to provide a quote. I'd so much rather they would just say if they're not interested and avoid wasting all our time. Perhaps the Derby Telegraph could start up a list of 'untrustworthy traders' and we could all add to it!!”

“by Stangi
However I would like to draw readers' attention to the 'Trusted Trader Scheme' which can be accessed on Derbyshire County Council's website."


Hold on - the Council give no warranty on their so called "trusted traders", and I've certainly come across one who cant be trusted to do a good, or even half decent job.”

“Well, if you want some artwork Neil, call me. I never let anyone down.

http://tinyurl.com/lwl9uq”

“I have to agree with this. As someone who moved to the area a few years ago I dont have family around to help with the difficult stuff and pass on sage advice so I rely on the professionals. Sadly finding a good one is very difficult. I had one come round the other day (a joiner). He quoted for the job and said he'd come on Friday (a couple of days later). He never showed, never phoned, ignored calls and texts. The other thing I find is sometimes when you do find a good one they will inevitably let you down at some point. Then the hunt for a replacement starts again. I agree with mark_sinfin that's it because they much prefer the big jobs, but there aren't big jobs all the time and these are tough economic times.”

“"all they did was make me wonder whether I shouldn't just get off my backside and do the jobs myself. "

There's an idea. why don't you?
Ironing and gardening are, assuming you are reasonably healthy, hardly difficult. Not doing it because you simply, 'can't stand it, or don't have the time' isnt an option for many. You have to learn to just get on with it, and somehow find the time
Whinging because you have more money than sense doesn't wash with me I'm afraid (even if it is only 'partially true')”

“Many capable people do not appreciate the importance of good communications and sticking to commitments.
However, most are capable of doing jobs one-handed as they seem to be on the phone all the time.”

“Q: "Why is it so hard to find an honest and reliable tradesman? "

A: " That's because they are very few and far between, that's why.!"”

“Agreed Mark_Sinfin.
However I would like to draw readers' attention to the 'Trusted Trader Scheme' which can be accessed on Derbyshire County Council's website. Many of these will do 'smaller' jobs and some give a discount for Derbyshire Goldcard holders.”

“People are only bothered about chasing the big money jobs these days which is why they put smaller jobs on the back burner and end up doing them in down time on the bigger ones. Its a shoddy way to do buisness though as you never build up a customer base who pass on your name to thier friends who in turn get you the big jobs you need along with the smaller ones to keep you going.”