Rogue traders continue to pose a serious threat to consumer safety and trust across the UK, with recent figures painting a troubling picture. In 2024 alone, over 9,700 suspected rogue trader reports were recorded nationwide, with East Anglia (934) emerging as one of the top hotspots for fraudulent activity.
These figures reflect a sharp rise in complaints, with Citizens Advice reporting the most exploited trades including roofing, general building, plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry, often leaving homeowners vulnerable to unsafe and substandard workmanship. As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, rogue traders are increasingly exploiting financial pressures, making vigilance and verification more critical than ever.
To help you recognise trusted businesses the Suffolk Trusted Trader scheme, backed by Suffolk County Council, is aimed at increasing consumer confidence, promoting good practice within local business, and helping protect consumers from doorstep crime.
Trading Standards Approved
‘Trading Standards Approved’ means
- The business is a current member of Suffolk Trusted Trader scheme who has completed the full vetting process.
- The business has agreed to abide by the schemes Code of Practice which outlines transparent procedures for
- Quoting and carrying out work
- Only charging a fair and reasonable price
- Dealing with complaints promptly
- You can use the local businesses with confidence
Find out more by visiting the Suffolk Trusted Traders website. Here you can search for Trading Standers Approved business, view feedback and comments left by previous customers, and help support the scheme by reviewing any Trusted Traders you have used.
