He marked the start of National Construction Week by inviting firms in Birmingham to register for the scheme and undergo tests covering technical competence, financial probity and training.
Companies can qualify for the quality mark as a general building company, carrying out work in a number of different trade disciplines, or as a specialist contractor undertaking work in one trade.
Contractors that do qualify, by showing that they conform with the minimum standards required, must also abide by a code of practice that will include a complaints procedure and an insurance-backed warranty scheme.
Raynsford said: “Although a modest beginning, the launch of the first pilot represents a historic innovation and a major step forward for consumers and the industry.” The assessments will be carried out by the BRE.
The scheme will cost a minimum of £500 for companies with a turnover of up to £100 000. Firms with a turnover of £100 000-250 000 will pay £675, and those with a turnover of £250 000-1m will pay £920. The cost for firms that turn over more than £1m will be negotiated.
Raynsford said the public would be able to take advantage of the scheme, which is more than two months behind schedule, in June or July. The second pilot will be launched in Somerset in autumn.
A spokesperson for the DETR added that the criteria for assessing competent firms would be refined and amended during the pilots.
The spokesperson said: “We have established criteria, but it doesn’t mean it’ll end up like this. We have to see how it works on the ground.”
