Choosing a joiner or carpenter
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Carpenters have to be accurate when measuring, keeping things level and getting angles right.
Key qualifications for carpenters include NVQs or membership of specialist trade organisations, such as the Institute of Carpenters.
Joiners tend to be workshop based. They usually make window frames, staircases, doors and other sometimes complex structures that carpenters then take on site and fit. You may well visit a joinery shop if you are having bespoke furniture or fittings made.
The Institute of Carpenters and the Timber Research and Development Agency have lists of their members, which can be a valuable source for finding someone to work for you.
You can use our trader checklist to help you select a reliable trader and guide you through the process of forming a contract.
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Renfrewshire Trusted Trader Scheme
Renfrewshire traders have signed up to become members of our Trusted Trader Scheme. We have a directory of consumer rated businesses that have agreed to abide by a specific code, as set out by Trading Standards. You will see their average score out of 10 for their previous jobs and also a compiled list of customer comments to help you make a decision when choosing a trader.
How to record a complaint against a trader
- In the first instance, you should contact the trader in writing and give them the opportunity to resolve any issues you may have.
- Send your complaint letter by Recorded Delivery and keep a copy of the letter and the Recorded Delivery receipt for records.
- Consumer Direct and Directgov have produced template letters to make a complaint.
If your letter fails to resolve the complaint and you require to speak with an adviser for further consumer advice:
- contact our partners, Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.
- If Consumer Direct advice does not resolve your complaint, they will refer it on to us for further investigation. Please note that, depending on the circumstances, it may take up to 10 working days before we can contact you.
- For further consumer advice please visit the Directgov website.
Alternatively, you can complete the following form and submit direct to Trading Standards:
Consumer Complaint Reporting Form (PDF - 604kb)
Contact us
- email: ts.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk
- call in or write to us at:
- Trading Standards
Environmental Services
Renfrewshire House
Cotton Street
Paisley
PA1 1BR



