Andy Burnham has launched a crackdown on "rogue bailiffs" and "cowboy builders" to protect vulnerable individuals from aggressive behavior and overcharging. New regulations will require private bailiffs to be accredited, and a government-backed scheme will help consumers identify trusted tradespeople.
These measures aim to protect consumers from predatory practices by bailiffs and tradespeople, potentially saving individuals from financial hardship and unfair treatment, while also fostering greater trust in essential services.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a significant crackdown on "rogue bailiffs" and "cowboy builders" as part of a broader initiative to ease the cost of living and promote fairness. The measures aim to protect vulnerable individuals from aggressive practices and overcharging.
The new regulations for bailiffs in England and Wales will require private bailiffs to be accredited by the Enforcement Conduct Board (ECB) or work for an accredited company. This aims to ensure consistent professional standards and provide an independent complaints process for those facing enforcement action. The government stated that these changes are expected to be fully implemented by next year.
Consumer groups have previously highlighted poor practices by bailiffs, including aggressive doorstep behavior, overcharging, and threatening to seize essential possessions. Minister for courts and legal services Sarah Sackman emphasized that individuals struggling with debt should not face intimidation or unfair treatment. Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, had previously criticized the lack of independent regulation in the bailiff industry.
In addition to the bailiff reforms, Burnham also announced measures targeting unscrupulous tradespeople. Starting next month, a government-backed "Approved Code" scheme for the home improvement sector will help consumers identify and hire trusted builders with confidence. This scheme, developed by the furniture and home improvement ombudsman, will be fully implemented by December.
Furthermore, an app-based service called Trusted Payments is set to launch next week. This service will allow consumers to safeguard their money during building projects by holding funds safely and releasing them incrementally as project milestones are met, similar to deposit protection schemes for tenants.