With a rise of 33% in bogus tradesmen attempting to gain more business by falsely using the NICEIC logo, the organisation has been successful in helping to prosecute a number of rogue traders

“Working closely with trading standards offices around the UK, the complaints team at NICEIC’s headquarters has been working hard to ensure successful prosecutions, leading in some cases to hefty fines for those who break the law,” said Emma McCarthy, chief operating officer, NICEIC Group.

One such prosecution took place in August at Cardigan Magistrates Court, where Gordon Perry, trading as Gordon’s Electrics in Llandysul, Carmarthenshire, pleaded guilty to six charges in respect of the Trade Descriptions Act, including making false claims that his business was registered with NICEIC on business cards, quotations and invoices.

Perry was fined £450, ordered to pay £750 towards the costs of the prosecution and a victim surcharge of £15. Compensation of £1500 was also awarded to the victims involved in the case.

“We take all allegations of logo misuse extremely seriously as we must protect those contractors who voluntarily submit themselves to be assessed to our rigorous standards and notify their work where appropriate,” said McCarthy.

“Rogue traders need to be aware that NICEIC will take all appropriate action to make sure our logo is not falsely used.”

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor

Postscript

NICEIC has launched an equipment hire service in conjunction with Hire Station. Registered contractors can call the order line on 0845 600 6155.