About the Trader Scheme
The Isle of Wight Trader Approval Scheme helps residents find trustworthy local businesses. Approved traders meet standards set by the council’s Trading Standards Service and are monitored for quality and customer satisfaction.
What is the Trader Approval Scheme?
This scheme is run by the Isle of Wight Council’s Trading Standards Service. It aims to:
- promote honest and reliable local businesses
- help residents make informed choices
- reduce the risk of scams and poor service
Benefits for Consumers
The Isle of Wight Trader Approval Scheme (TAS) provides you with a list of local businesses who have given their commitment to trading fairly. Every business listed has undergone a series of detailed background checks before being approved as a member of the scheme.
- The businesses listed on the Isle of Wight Trader Approval Scheme will vary in size, expertise, and cost
- To make sure the business you have chosen will best match your expectations, it is important to seek several quotes from various traders
- Always ask questions and get clear answers before going ahead
Become a member of the Isle of Wight Trader Approval Scheme
Joining the the Isle of Wight Trader Approval Scheme (IW TAS) offers your business a range of valuable benefits:
- Consumer Confidence: Membership assures consumers that they can trust and have confidence in your services.
- Active Promotion: The Trader Approval Scheme is actively promoted by Trading Standards, enhancing your business's visibility and reputation.
- Mediation Support: In the unlikely event that something goes wrong, Trading Standards can mediate on behalf of traders who are part of the scheme.
- Affordable Membership: The application fee is £120.00, with an annual fee to fit your business size. Making it a cost-effective investment in your business's credibility and customer trust.
We look forward to welcoming you as a valued member of the IW TAS community.
Local businesses and sole traders across various sectors can apply, including:
- Home improvement and repair services
- Retail and consumer services
- Professional and specialist trades
Yes, there is an annual membership fee. This covers administration, active promotion, mediation support and vetting.
Annual membership fee:
- 0 to 5 employees - £55 + VAT (£66 Inc. VAT)
- 6 to 20 employees - £85 + VAT (£102 Inc. VAT)
- 21+ employees - £215 + VAT (£258 Inc. VAT)
Traders are vetted following a strict process. Membership of the scheme is not given lightly.
Each applying business will be subjected to several checks and will be required to attend a personal meeting with a Trading Standards Officer prior to approval.
Entry Vetting Process
Businesses applying to the scheme must:
- Be based on the Isle of Wight
- Have been trading for a minimum of 6 months
- Pass a set of tailored background checks
- Supply several references from satisfied customers
- Agree to all employees, working within Customers’ homes, undergoing a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (Formerly known as CRB). Further information is provided by Disclosure and Barring Service - GOV.UK
- Agree to abide by the scheme's terms and conditions and the scheme’s code of conduct
- Provide relevant paperwork on request
To become and remain a member of the Trader Approval Scheme, businesses must agree to and follow a set of minimum standards. These standards are designed to ensure:
- high-quality customer service
- professional conduct from all staff
- fair treatment of customers
- clear communication
- proper handling of complaints
- honest and courteous behaviour from every team member
These standards are essential because they help protect consumers and maintain trust in the scheme. Traders who consistently meet these expectations contribute to a safer and more reliable local marketplace.
- download the full TAS Terms and Conditions (PDF, 860.15KB, 14 pages)
Join us today and take the next step in building a trusted and reputable business.
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