• Their only contact telephone number is a mobile phone number.
• They show no address on their business cards (if they have any)
• They offer a discount (usually by saying you avoid VAT) for cash in hand.li>They try and talk you out of what you want for something easier simply because they don't have the skills to do the job you want.
• They make the work sound complicated and use lots of confusing jargon.
• They are unwilling to give you a full written quote or put anything in writing.
• They are unwilling to give references for previous jobs.
• They are unable to give you a firm price as "things may change".
• They give a surprisingly low quote.
• They start telling you there's more work that needs doing than you thought and they may even recommend another trades person (often another 'cowboy').
• They cannot show you their liability insurance certificate.
• They cannot show you their qualifications gained for the work they are doing i.e. Corgi registration certificate for gas work or Part 'P' qualification for electrical work.

A reputable company is proud of its reputation and should always be willing to prove the above.

• Check that they do exactly the type of work you want them to do.
• Ask how long the company has been in business. But remember all companies have to start out somewhere and new companies are often out to impress because they want your recommendation, want to build a good reputation and often when first starting out will provide a better service than an established company.
• Ask if they belong to a professional body or trade association and ask for their registration number to check it out.
• Ask if they have liability insurance and don't be afraid to ask to see the certificate.
• Ask them when they will start the work and get it in writing.
• Make sure the quote includes all the work you need done, so that you can properly compare quotes from different companies. Don't forget to check that VAT is included. A £600 quote will jump over £100 if it does not include VAT.
• Check that all the work will be guaranteed and for how long and what is covered.
• If you are having plumbing, electrical or gas work done make sure they are qualified to do this work. Don't be afraid to ask to see the certificates.
• Ask for the quote in writing, doing the same for any revised quotes.
• Do not change your mind part way through the job - this voids the agreement you have signed and will cause bad feeling and may even leave your trades person deciding to cut their losses and walk away before finishing the job.