Where is best to get self-employed work?

browneyedbazzi

Is there an approved trader scheme in your area?

There are a number of private schemes that traders can join (some more reputable than others and costs/requirements to join vary considerably - checkatrade is supposed to be quite good) and some local authorities also have recommended/approved trader schemes (often cheaper than the private schemes and free to join in some areas, most will require you to provide references and proof of insurance etc).

osdset

agrinnall wrote: »

I've never used it myself, and I don't know what the cost to a tradesman would be, but the website that I've often seen mention of is www.ratedpeople.com. The problem may be that you need to get recommendations before other people will select you, so if you have existing customers willing to endorse you then get them to do it.

The problem with these sites is that tradesmen have to pay upfront for leads which don't guarantee work. Making construction pay is hard enough as it is without giving cash away.

Word of mouth is No1 IMO, then advertising.

Times are tough though even in London, there are too many trades chasing the work and undercutting each other.