A recent survey has revealed that UK homeowners are set to spend up to £55.5 billion on home improvements in the next 12 months. 47% of Brits are worried about the impending impact that Brexit may have on the housing market, resulting in many looking to ‘improve not move’. [1]
What does this mean for installation companies?
51% of those surveyed were planning home improvements in the next year with 39% looking to spend between £2,000-£10,000. [1]
With more homeowners looking to ‘improve not move’, this is a real window of opportunity for installation companies to generate new business in what is an uncertain marketplace given the forthcoming general election and Brexit.
How can installers seize the opportunity?
Most homeowners get multiple quotes before choosing a company to carry out works in their homes. Price is one of the main factors that homeowners will take into consideration, but equally important is trust, confidence and reliability.
Being a member of a consumer protection scheme, which gives consumers full peace of mind, reinforces trust and credibility with customers which helps convert more sales.
If all else fails, according to research by Boiler Guide, customers are automatically more likely to trust you if your name is Nigel. This is closely followed by the names Gary and Paul. Bad luck if your name is Jack though, you had better keep reading and get signed up to a consumer protection scheme as soon as possible! [2]
How can consumer protection schemes help?
The DGCOS, HICS and HIES consumer protection schemes ensure that consumers are protected before, during and after their home installation:
- Being an accredited installer in our trusted network really does make a difference. This shows potential customers that they can trust that the company has been vetted and adhere to a scheme’s rules.
- Marketing material can help create a lasting impression with customers and help increase conversions. Most installers use our supporting material across a wide variety of formats (including on company websites, social media, emailed and given out directly) to help demonstrate the full extent of the consumer protection and benefits they’ll receive.
- Quite often the first hurdle is taking the deposit. At this point, you have done no work and you are asking for a large sum of money based on your word/reputation. Being able to offer your customers deposit protection gives them extra confidence at the point of sale.
- Providing customers with valid, reputable, insurance means that customers can rest assured knowing if the installation company ceases to trade, the workmanship guarantee will be protected. For your peace of mind as an installer, make sure this is a policy without difficult exclusion clauses that could leave your customers unprotected.
- If things should go wrong, customers also have an extra layer of security knowing that they can access free ADR (alternative dispute resolution services) and free access to the Ombudsman.
How to join?
If you’d like to find out more about the benefit of joining DGCOS and becoming a member, please contact the Service Delivery team via our contact form or call 0345 053 8975.
[1] A nationwide survey conducted by Checkatrade.com
[2] An analysis conducted by Boiler Guide