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The term ‘supplier’ refers to an organisation or individual that supplies goods or services.

As a landlord you will need to seek the services of suppliers from time to time. There are a number of important factors to take into account when commissioning suppliers. These include value, quality, reliability and service.

The term ‘supplier’ refers to an organisation or individual that supplies goods or services.

As a landlord you will need to seek the services of suppliers from time to time. There are a number of important factors to take into account when commissioning suppliers. These include value, quality, reliability and service.

When choosing the right supplier:

Work out what your requirements are

It is important to be clear about what your requirements are. Requirements need to include exactly what the work is that you need doing, how long you have to complete the work and an idea of the budget available. This will help you narrow your choice of supplier.

Identify some suppliers that can meet your needs

Most suppliers have a website so start your search online. You can also try looking in your local newspaper, yellow pages, and in trade magazines. The following websites can help you find local tradespeople: www.checkatrade.com and www.tradecheck.co.uk – links can be found in the Additional Resources section at the end of this subject.

You can also search Companies House website to find out their registered address, an indication of their history, and information such as whether they are up to date with their accounts. The link and how to do this are also in the Additional Resources section.

Research the product or service that you require

Once you have identified some suppliers that meet your needs, make a note of them including details on their product and their charges. Search on the internet to see if you can find any reviews of their services. You could ask on special interest forums to see if anyone has used the supplier or product you are interested in. Speak to the suppliers directly if you need any more details on the services they offer – make sure you factor in any extras such as delivery charges.

Factors to take into account when making your decision

Do they have the right expertise?

Has the company been trading for at least 12 months? Do they have experience dealing with landlords and rented property? Are they qualified to carry out the work? Do they have adequate insurance?

Can they provide references?

Can you speak to someone else who has used the company’s services? Most reputable suppliers should be able to provide references on request.

Quality and Price

Make sure you look closely to compare what you get for your money. The cheapest might not give you good value as the quality could be poor and conversely the most expensive might not necessarily mean it is the best.

It is also worth asking whether they are VAT registered or not as there could be a 20% difference on price for the same job, at current VAT rates.

Terms and Conditions

Read the terms and conditions and any contracts carefully. Look out for hidden charges or unfair terms and make sure you understand everything before signing on the dotted line.

Communication

Is the company clear in its communications to you? Do they deal with your questions promptly? How do they deal with people? The right supplier won’t ever need to use the hard sell. If you feel you are under pressure to buy then they may not be the right supplier for you.

Trust your instincts

Ultimately, if you feel that something is not quite right, walk away.

When you buy a product or service the law gives you certain rights as a consumer.

If you have a dispute with a supplier:

Complain direct to the supplier – Approach the supplier directly and follow up your complaints in writing. Make sure you give a deadline for a response.

If you do not feel your complaint has been dealt with satisfactorily find out if the supplier is a member of a trade association or ombudsman. They may be able to provide a complaints service or offer mediation between you and the supplier.

When you buy a product or service the law gives you certain rights as a consumer.

If you have a dispute with a supplier:

Complain direct to the supplier – Approach the supplier directly and follow up your complaints in writing. Make sure you give a deadline for a response.

If you do not feel your complaint has been dealt with satisfactorily find out if the supplier is a member of a trade association or ombudsman. They may be able to provide a complaints service or offer mediation between you and the supplier.

Going to court should be a last resort. Make sure you get some legal advice before proceeding with a case.

The following organisations can provide advice and information on disputes against suppliers. 

Directgov provides useful, clear guides on your rights, where you can get help and information on how to make a complaint. The website includes handy templates to help you put together a letter of complaint.

The Law Society can help you locate a solicitor in your area.

The Trade Association Forum can help you search for relevant trade associations that may be able to help

The British and Irish Ombudsman Association lists Ombudsmen in the UK

The following organisations can provide advice and information on disputes against suppliers. 

Directgov provides useful, clear guides on your rights, where you can get help and information on how to make a complaint. The website includes handy templates to help you put together a letter of complaint.

The Law Society can help you locate a solicitor in your area.

The Trade Association Forum can help you search for relevant trade associations that may be able to help

The British and Irish Ombudsman Association lists Ombudsmen in the UK

Consumer Direct is a consumer advice service, run by the Citizens Advice Bureau. You can call them on 03454 04 05 06 about problems with goods and services or fill in an online complaint form.

Links to their websites can be found in the Additional Resources section below.