Member Article

Don't fall victim to rogue traders

A consumer watchdog business based at the BIC’s award winning business complex, the Jupiter Centre is urging the North East to stay safe from rogue traders now the dark nights are here.

Checked and Vetted was set up by best friends, Millicent Warham and Christine York and has gone from strength to strength since they began just 12 months ago. From doubling their employees from six to 12 and having over 350 traders on the books. The service works by inviting reputable tradesmen to sign up as Checked and Vetted members. They are then vetted and interviewed in person by the company, and only when they have satisfied the vetting procedure will their membership be activated. Millicent explains why they moved on site:

“It was fresh and modern, the continuous support is fantastic. The facilities were just what we needed to begin an ambitious business; from state of the art conference rooms to the ample free car parking as we knew a lot of our members would be calling into see us so the latter was very appealing. Not to mention the beautiful location, with views along the river.

“The message I would like to get across this winter is to simply say ‘no’ on your doorstep. I want to remind people to be vigilant and if you aren’t sure just close the door and for readers to check on their elderly neighbours. I am very passionate about what we do as I speak to local people all the time on the telephone that have previously been ripped off by cowboy builders, it’s heartbreaking.”

Donna Surtees, BIC’s senior business space adviser, said:

“The BIC has space for businesses of all shapes and sizes regardless if your business is large or small.

“I hope that Checked and Vetted continue their success for such an important cause. It’s fantastic to see them doing so well after only one year in business. We continue to wish them all the best.” For anyone wishing to find a vetted trade in your area please call 0191 651 11 65 or visit www.checkedandvetted.com

To arrange a site visit to the BIC and view the variety of business space available, please call Donna Surtees on 0191 516 6066 or email space@ne-bic.co.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Spence .