Beware of rogue traders

Unfortunately, it's all too easy to fall foul of rogue traders when getting work done on your home.

Citizens Advice has published guidance that should help you save time, money and stress and ensure you choose a reputable and reliable trader.

Follow some basic ground rules and you could prevent yourself from becoming a victim of a rogue trader, including:

• never pay large sums of money upfront before works starts
• avoid anyone who asks for large cash deposits
• make sure you have a written contract with agreed timescales and costs
• have an agreed schedule of staged payments for large works, following completion of different phases

Read the Citizens Advice guidance on planning for home improvements.