ROGUE traders are on the run after the local authority launched a new scheme to tackle them.

A new Trusted Trader scheme aims to help members of the public choose a reliable firm vetted by Inverclyde Council’s trading standards officers.

The new service is deigned to protect customers from conmen.

Provost Martin Brennan, who formally launched the scheme with a group of traders, pictured, said: “All too often we hear about doorstep criminals and rogue traders targeting local people.

“They will often leave the job at best unfinished or at worst costing the householder hundreds of thousands of pounds to put right their shoddy workmanship.

“The Trusted Trader scheme will help to protect local people while promoting reputable companies.

The Trusted Trader scheme uses an online directory of local traders who have made a commitment to treat their customers fairly.

Provost Brennan said: “People will have the confidence to know that all members have been vetted by us and that we have put a process in place to deal with any disputes should something go wrong.”

Customers will play an important role in the scheme by sending in feedback comments and scores.

These will be published on the trader’s individual page.

Each trader will have a satisfaction score from all their customer feedback — so the more is received, the more accurate the rating.

Education and communities convener Councillor Jim Clocherty said: “Traders will be able to promote themselves as a member of the scheme and will receive expert advice from Trading Standards on how to improve their processes and service to ensure they end up with happy customers. 

“We look forward to seeing the scheme grow, local businesses grow and people’s confidence in Inverclyde’s local traders grow.”