The tradesperson websites are given dos and don’ts to stay on the right side of the law.

The public increasingly uses websites and apps to find tradesperson to work in their homes.

Some sites operate like a ‘matchmaking’ service where householders post the necessary work, and traders respond.

Another database, search or listing sites allow householders to look up local tradespeople and businesses.

The CMA is concerned that the public assumes or is misled into thinking that the website checks or rates the traders as trustworthy and of good quality.

Householders often assume that because the trader is listed, they are reliable or suitable for the job.

Other sites list traders as members of a scheme or ‘confederation’, and users assume such organisations will act if the tradesperson they employ carries out substandard work.

People often use trade sites to find and connect with traders in various specialisms, including roofing. They rely on online reviews but cannot know whether the reviews are fake.

However, if a listed trader's work is not satisfactory, the consumer often finds that the listing site used has no power—or interest—in helping.

Working with Trading Standards, the CMA has investigated how these sites operate. They have identified several concerns that could harm consumers.

The CMA will issue a finalised version of the advice, together with practical tips for consumers on how to use trader recommendation sites safely.