Advice before you buy

Healthcare, Mobility, and Assistive Technology products

Healthcare, Mobility, and Assistive Technology products

If you need a healthcare, mobility, or assistive technology device to help with everyday living, you want to be sure you’re buying from a reputable business. Look for businesses that are operating under an OFT Approved code.

Top tips

• Don’t let pushy sales people outstay their welcome.
• Ask for a product demonstration and be sure it is the right product for you.
• Talk it over with family, friends and relatives before you buy.

British Healthcare Trades Association members operate under an OFT Approved code.

 Search for a British Healthcare Trades Association member in your area. 

To search for a BHTA member business by category visit the BHTA website.

Car body repair

Car body repair

If you've had a bump it can be worrying to trust an expensive repair with an unknown business. The OFT database makes it easy to find reputable repairers in your area.

Top tips

• Remember – it’s your car and your choice of repairer.
• Don't be pressured into going to a body shop you're unsure about.
• Check the guarantee and what support its OFT Approved code offers to consumers.

Vehicle Builders and Repairers members operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a Vehicle Builders and Repairers member in your area.

Car repair and servicing

Car repair and servicing

Servicing is an essential part of keeping your car in tip-top condition, but it can also be a costly business. Search for garages displaying the OFT approved code - it means the business is operating under a trade body that has an approved code of practice providing you with high standards of customer service and ensuring your rights as a consumer are better protected. Simply search for car garages with an OFT Approved code.

Top tips

• Get your car serviced at least once a year.
• Make sure you know what’s covered in the work.
• Don’t forget to get your logbook stamped!

Bosch Car Service and Motor Codes (Car Service and Repair) members operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a trusted business in your area.

Debt Management

Debt Management

If you’re looking for a way to manage your debts and decide to use a commercial debt management service, search for a business with an OFT approved code.

Top tips

• Don’t ignore the problem.
• Be open and honest with your creditors.
• Seek professional help and advice.

Debt Managers Standards Association members operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a Debt Managers Standards Association member in your area.

Direct selling

Direct selling

Buying goods and services in your home, from a direct seller, may be quick and convenient. But how do you know you're dealing with a reputable business? Selecting a business that displays an OFT Approved Code logo helps take that worry away.

Top tips

• Always check the identity of sales people and the businesses they represent.
• Don’t hand over money unless you are completely satisfied.
• Make sure you get a receipt or order number which contains the contact details of the business supplying the goods.

Members of the Direct Selling Association operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a  Direct Selling Association member in your area.

Estate agents

Estate agents

Buying a new home may be one of the most stressful periods of your life. So it’s great to know that you’ve got an extra level of protection if things go wrong. You can find out which of your local estate agents display the OFT Approved code logo.

Top tips

• Talk to more than one agent.
• Ask for testimonials.
• Negotiate hard on fees.

Members of The Property Ombudsman operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a member business of the Property Ombudsman in your area.

Home furnishings

Home furnishings

Refurbishing your house is exciting, but a small project can easily spiral out of control if you end up with faulty/sub-standard goods. Search for a carpet retailer operating to an OFT Approved code.

Top tips

• Get a written quotation.
• Look for quality guarantees.
• Make sure the installation is guaranteed.

Retail Members of The Carpet Foundation operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a member business of the Carpet Foundation in your area.

Motor trade (new cars)

Motor trade (new cars)

Buying a new car is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. So it’s vital that you buy from a trustworthy business with all of the necessary guarantees.

Look for new car dealers that are operating under an OFT Approved code.

Top tips

• Do your homework.
• Decide how much you’re prepared to pay.
• Ask for a new car warranty.

Members of Motor Codes Ltd operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a Motor Codes Ltd member business in your area.

Removers

Removers

Moving house doesn’t have to be stressful. Find a remover who has signed up to an OFT Approved code to give you reassurance during your move that in the likely event that something goes wrong, you will be treated fairly. Plus, in the unlikely event that something does go wrong, you’ll be treated fairly.

Top tips

• Plan your move well in advance.
• Avoid moving on Friday, as this day is always busy.
• Consider using professional packers.
• Discuss insurance arrangements and other protection options.

Members of the British Association of Removers operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for a British Association of Removers member business in your area.

Will writing

Will writing

If you have been thinking about making or reviewing your Will but have not yet done so, put your mind at ease with the help of a professional Willwriter operating to a code of practice which been approved by the OFT.

Top Tips

• Don't delay making your will - it is never too early.
• Do your research - check out qualifications and what is included in the price that you are quoted.
• Ensure you understand the service that is being offered as well as the timescale and costs involved.

Members of the Institute of Professional Willwriters operate under an OFT Approved code.

Search for an Institute of Professional Willwriters member business in your area.