As part of a continued national awareness drive, WaterSafe, the UK’s national plumbing register, has launched a new national media campaign designed to encourage consumers to check for credentials when choosing a plumber.

The campaign, fronted by broadcast journalist, Alice Beer, is called Trust Approved Plumbers (TAP) and reveals where the nation places its trust, with an onus on what consumers place as priority when choosing a plumber.

The campaign launch follows new research carried out by WaterSafe, which found that over half (54%) of UK homeowners would trust a tradesperson based on first appearances rather than professional credentials. More so, over two-thirds (67%) say fresh breath and attractive smell affect their opinion of a tradesperson, while for a third (30%) a trader’s clothing affects how trustworthy they think they are.

Yet, as little as 30% of Brits actually check a tradesperson’s professional credentials, despite the fact that it is estimated that rogue plumbers have cost the nation £2.6 billion in recent years.

In a bid to raise awareness of the importance of checking a plumber’s credentials, WaterSafe has teamed up Alice in a national media drive to urge homeowners to Trust Approved Plumbers.

Julie Spinks, director of WaterSafe, said:

“It’s a great shame that, while consumers are increasingly cautious in all others areas of their everyday life, there is still a lack of awareness about the importance of qualifications and how to check them, when it comes to choosing a tradesperson. The reality, however, of not using a properly qualified plumber is not only dangerous; it’s a false economy and could end up costing the homeowner a small fortune to repair, not to mention the safety hazards.

“Our message is simple – when choosing a plumber always use the WaterSafe website to make sure you get a qualified professional every time. In this way we, as a nation, can Trust Approved Plumbers. All homeowners need to do is go to the website, type in their postcode and it will provide them with several approved plumbing businesses in their geographical area.”

Danny Davis, operations manager for the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineers, said:

“I find it surprising, that consumers would place their trust in the way a tradesperson looks, rather than find out about their qualifications and experience.

“Of course, when we let someone into our home to carry out work we expect them to look professional, but it’s very important that consumers check the qualifications and experience of the individual. When it comes to plumbing and heating, a lot of damage can be caused by someone who has not had the correct training.”