Builders and roofers considered least trustworthy tradespeople

Roofers and builders are considered the least trustworthy tradespeople while electricians are the most likely to inspire confidence, according to new research from Which? Trusted Traders.

The survey has revealed that four in 10 (38%) householders do not trust builders and roofers when employing them for the first time, making these trades the least trusted for domestic building work and repairs.

In stark contrast, eight in 10 (80%) of those surveyed said they trusted the electrician they called in to make repairs and improvements in their home. Central heating engineers were also widely trusted, with three quarters (75%) feeling confident that they would do a good job.

The survey also asked people about their biggest worries when hiring a tradesperson, revealing that the largest concern was that they would not turn up at the agreed time, which was cited by six in 10 (62%).

Poor workmanship and being taken for a ride were other top concerns, with over half (55%) worrying that a trader would do a bad job and a similar number (46%) anxious that they would be ripped off.

Full list of net trust in tradespeople:

· Electricians – 80%
· Central heating engineers – 75%
· Plumbers – 73%
· Carpenters – 72%
· Decorators – 70%
· Plasterers – 68%
· Glaziers – 65%
· Mechanics – 64%
· Tilers – 61%
· Kitchen fitters – 58%
· Builders – 53%
· Drain and sewer services – 50%
· Roofers – 48%