LETTER OF THE DAY - Database of tradesmen needed
Published:Thursday | July 15, 2010 | 12:00 AM
The Editor, Sir:
I have had experiences with at least five different 'mechanics' in an attempt to fix a 1996 vehicle, and I had a unique form of mosquito net installed - to great disappointment. I have witnessed the product of faulty work by at least one plumber and one electrician and have seen the ineffectiveness of a roof repair.
Nearly all of these tradesmen were contracted due to local knowledge and recommendation, and I knew of no system to privately check on their purported expertise. Obviously, I am willing to give the 'small' man opportunities as I appreciate the connection between the economic success of members' endeavours and the survival of a community. In addition, not everyone qualifies for, will secure or even desire a nine-to-five job.
Nevertheless, incompetent or dishonest service providers are inimical to the trust needed for the continued support of local entrepreneurs and the health of a community. These 'local service providers', despite their cottage-industry status, still have a duty to ensure that their skills are relevant and up-to-date and that their goods are fit for the purpose intended and the likely conditions of use.
Caveat emptor
Instead of encouraging faith in the bonafides of a neighbour, most servicemen reinforce the need for caveat emptor. Unfortunately, the unsuspecting customer, new to their brand of service will always be duped. These dupings are expensive learning experiences and often there is very little redress that is feasible: receipts are not a feature of these local transactions, and aside from the satisfaction of having one's rights affirmed by the courts, the amounts involved and obtainable do not justify legal action.
In the short term I propose that the Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) set up a database of tradesmen and maintain the comments of customers on the jobs of these workmen. This should result in a consumer-driven rating system from which other unsuspecting but prudent consumers may advise themselves. All certified tradesmen would then be listed, verifiable and subject to some form of evaluation.
If the CAC is not willing, which I doubt will be the case, then as a means of self-preservation consumers may initiate a consumer league operable via cellphone updates or a website.
Then, our skilled workmen may, by the law of supply and demand supported by publicity, be more encouraged to update themselves and to provide professional jobs as a rule or, at the very least, to be more forthcoming with any limitations in their abilities.
I am, etc.,
PETER ANGLIN