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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Technology
Zoe Wood

Trader recommendation websites must vet firms, says watchdog

CMA
A builder on a ladder repairing a roof
Unscrupulous traders cost homeowners about £1.4bn a year in the UK. Photograph: Acorn 5/Alamy

Popular trader recommendation websites must vet the firms they advertise and tackle fake reviews under new rules designed to protect households from cowboy builders and tradespeople.

Nationally, unscrupulous traders cost homeowners about £1.4bn a year, according to trading standards authorities, a problem that is escalating as demand for home improvements, loft conversions and extensions increases.

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