Frequently Asked Questions for Business

What's it all about?

The scheme was set up to provide consumers with a list of reputable businesses who they can use knowing that they are committed to high standards of trading and are prepared to comply with both the letter and the spirit of the law.

Who is running the scheme?

The scheme is run by Trading Standards departments in a number of County and Local Authorities. Your membership will be administered by the local authorities in whose area your business is based. Please see our Areas We Cover web page for a full list of member Authorities and relevant contact details.

What are the benefits?

Membership benefits include publicity, regular advice, assistance and access to mediation. More details are available in the Member Benefits page, as well as Members' Comments

Will I see an increase in business?

There is no guarantee, but consumers who contact the Trading Standards Service will be directed towards the website when looking for tradesmen and the scheme is widely promoted.

I am a sole trader and operate from home, will this affect my application?

Not at all, the vast majority of Buy With Confidence members are sole traders and partnerships and many of them operate from their home address.

How do I apply?

You can use the application form on this site to apply online. Make sure that you read through the details of the scheme first so that you know exactly what you are agreeing to do.

What happens next?

You will be contacted by a member of Trading Standards staff who will arrange an appointment to come and see you to talk through the requirements of the scheme and examine your compliance with relevant legislation.

What if I don't meet the requirements of the scheme?

Trading Standards staff will advise you as to what needs to be done and will work with you to help you make any necessary changes.

How much will it cost?

Buy With Confidence is a partnership between a number of Trading Standards authorities, who administer the membership for businesses in their areas. Please refer to the Areas We Cover section to find the charges applicable in your area.

Please Note: If you carry out work in or around domestic premises, or for other high risk groups, you will be required to supply a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosure form in respect of every employee and unsupervised subcontractor who does such work on your behalf. There is a cost of £20.00 per person for this.

Why is there a charge in some areas and not in others?

As you will appreciate, maintenance and development of this type of scheme involves considerable expense on the part of the local authorities involved. Some authorities pass this on to members in the form of an annual fee, while others are able to absorb these costs so that membership is free.

The fee contributes to the cost of the website and its upkeep, promotional stickers and leaflets, customer feedback leaflets, and promotion of the Scheme through the media.