iKBBI News
UNIQUE CONSUMER PROTECTION INSURANCE CLOSE TO LAUNCH Consumer protection insurance isn’t new. Many trade associations offer policies, which ultimately support customers of retailers that fall into liquidation. The customers of companies that do not offer such protection are inevitably exposed to significant financial loss, with installers also feeling the pain as the business goes under. However, the iKBBI have been developing a new and holistic policy with a leading specialist in consumer protection, which will not only include protection for the consumer in the event of a collapse, but now also financial protection for the installer too. Over the years, many businesses have ceased to trade, from MFI to Dolphin and more recently Tesco Kitchens & Bathrooms. Thankfully, many customers were protected, either by insurance policies or by their own bank or credit card provider. However, what is common is the significant loss felt by the installer who was contracted to complete the installations – many of whom have lost tens of thousands of pounds over more than one retail collapse. The new insurance scheme will be available to iKBBI Installation Standards Partners, with a specific aim to raise standards and to support
consumers and installers in the event of a member firms insolvency. iKBBI members who undertake the relevant contract for the retail customer will be protected against loss for the non-payment of contract where the contract has not been started, they have not been paid, there is no right of set off by the retailer and that they haven’t breached the terms of their agreement with the retailer. For the consumer, it means that the original installer completes the project, which in addition to financial protection, also reduces the inconvenience and stress suffered when these unfortunate situations arise.
NEW COMMUNICATIONS ROLE
The iKBBI is pleased to announce that as part of its ongoing growth, it has appointed a new Communications Manager position, with an objective to develop and deliver a robust communication strategy for the institute. Denise Mayell joins the iKBBI HQ team next week, with further updates to follow.
WINNER! The lucky winner of our competition in issue 1 (Spring) and recipient of the prize, a 1000mm Manhattan 8 straight slider enclosure with side panel by Manhattan Showers Ltd, is Mark McEvoy of Mark McEvoy Interiors, an established installation business from Teddington in Middlesex. When told the news Mark expressed how pleased he was and said, “It makes a change as I never usually win anything!” Turn to page 37 for this months competition where you can win a Perrin & Rowe instant hot tap worth £950!
10
www.ikbbi.org.uk