Trader vetting scheme is unveiled in Northamptonshire
Trading Standards in Northamptonshire have started a new scheme which allows consumers to check a website for trusted traders.
"Buy with Confidence" helps people find a trader - such as a plumber or builder - who has been fully checked and vetted.
Every trader must also have undergone a basic Criminal Records Bureau check.
So far, 26 traders are on the scheme, with a further 60 due to be assessed.
Councillor Andre Gonzalez de Savage said the scheme was the first of its kind in the county and would help people "find a trusted and reputable trader".
Those accepted on the scheme must pass stringent checks including examination of past complaints, county court judgements, credit rating, company details, director's background and credit licensing.