Advice
The CIOB has a wealth of construction knowledge and is committed to sharing this information with the industry, the public and other interested parties and offer a range of guidance information to help and support constructors, clients and consumers.
The following are a list of organisations that are on hand to help the consumer with issues they may have, building works being one. Here, you will also find a number of useful links.
Office Fair Trading (OFT)
The OFT is responsible for making markets work well for consumers. This is achieved by promoting and protecting consumer interests throughout the UK, while ensuring that businesses are fair and competitive.
Department of Trade and Industry (dti)
The DTI is working to create the right conditions for businesses to succeed and to help the UK respond to the challenge of globalisation.
Consumer Direct
Consumer Direct is a telephone and online consumer advice service, supported by the Office of Fair Trading.
They provide clear, practical, impartial advice to help consumers resolve problems and disagreements they may be having with suppliers of goods or services.
From overcharging to faulty goods, from dodgy workmanship to reporting dishonest traders and scams, their advisers are ready to offer solutions for individual problems.
Trading Standards
Their website 'Trading Standards Central' acts as a one stop shop for consumer protection information in the UK.
The site provides a wealth of information for consumers and businesses, schools, advice and information centres, community organisations, local councils, business support agencies and Trade Associations.
TrustMark
TrustMark is a new scheme supported by Government, the building industry and consumer groups to help you find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make improvements and repairs to your home.
Use the website to search for a list of Trade Associations and other organisations that have been approved. They can supply you with details of reputable builders, electricians, roofers, heating engineers and other tradespeople that meet certain standards the Government has set. TrustMark is a new scheme supported by Government, the building industry and consumer groups to help you find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make improvements and repairs to your home. Use the website to search for a list of Trade Associations and other organisations that have been approved. They can supply you with details of reputable builders, electricians, roofers, heating engineers and other tradespeople that meet certain standards the Government has set.
Building Regulations
The Building Regulations apply in England & Wales and exist principally to ensure the health and safety of people in and around buildings. They also provide for access to and around buildings and energy conservation. Here you will find useful links to the Planning Portal website where specific technical guidance can be found.
Technical Information
The CIOB is considered to be the focal point for construction technical advice and liaises closely with others for the effective delivery of wide-ranging technical advice through the Library and Information Services, and the documentation provided here on the website.
The technical advice provided includes advice on: building regulations and codes; technical standards; various forms of contracts; legislative changes; and other issues pertaining to the process of construction management. In addition, the CIOB regularly receives Government consultative documents on various issues. The CIOB response is based on consultation with CIOB members who have expertise in the required field.
Visit the CIOB website for further information and useful documents
