Trader checks
Every member of Trading Standards Checked has a comprehensive 50 point check* carried out on them. This includes checks on the director(s) / business owner(s) of the business as well as the business itself. These stringent checks, that only KCC Trading Standards can carry out, help residents find safe, reputable traders.
*Min no. of checks based on one director. More checks are carried out if there are multiple directors/business owners.
Enhanced by Kent Police
The Trading Standards Checked scheme is further enhanced by Kent Police who carries out criminal record checks as part of the validation of trader applications when required. This is done under the Kent and Medway Data Sharing Agreement.
This gives you additional peace of mind when choosing a Trading Standards Checked trader to do work in your home.
The vetting process
All the checks are carried out by a highly skilled Intelligence Officer. Traders who pass our robust 50 point check, understand that they must comply with all relevant UK legislation and receive support and advice to help them act responsibly, fairly and honestly.
Ongoing monitoring
We don't just do one off checks. All complaints made to the Citizens Advice consumer service (CACS) about any member of the Trading Standards Checked scheme are monitored continuously. This ensures that a consistently high standard is maintained by our traders throughout their membership, giving you even more confidence when choosing a Trading Standards Checked trader.
Our 50 point check includes:
Checks of consumer complaints and non-compliance with legislation.
A review of local, regional and national confidential intelligence systems.
A review of restricted information supplied by external organisations, public authorities and the police.
Credit checks including Insolvency, Bankruptcy and County Court Judgements.
Public Liability Insurance check.
Verification of registered trading address.
Checks of mandatory accreditation and qualifications required to carry out advertised services. E.g. Gas Safe, NICEIC.
Identification checks including official documents and proofs.
Checks of company trading history.
A review and checks of any financial sanctions, Health & Safety breaches, and review of legal materials, including judgments from England and Wales as well as other jurisdictions.
A skilled review of information online that is freely available to the public.