Campaign bids to nail rogue traders; CONSUMER: Cowboy builders generating over 111,000 complaints per year.

Byline: Neil Elkes

COWBOY builders and dodgy repair companies, who are responsible for generating thousands of consumer complaints each year, will be targeted in a new 'Nail the Rogues' campaign.

Birmingham homeowners considering modernising their homes will be offered helpful advice to ensure the builder they hire is up to scratch.

Each year across the UK, more than pounds 1.5 billion is wasted on poor build-injobs, generating a whopping 111,000 complaints. Poor quality loft conversions, extensions, badly-fitted boilers and shoddy electrical wiring can not only reduce a home's value but are also potentially lethal.

Many homeowners may not even be aware of defects such as shoddy foundations or faulty wiring until they come to sell and a full survey is carried out - when they have to pay for expensive repair work.

Birmingham City Council's building consultancy service and Trading Standards are working with national trade organisations, including the Federation of Master Builders, on Nail The Rogues. The chairman of Birmingham's planning committee, Coun Peter Douglas Osborn (Con, Weoley) said: "Over the summer holidays, many homeowners will be looking to extend or repair their homes.

"Choosing the right builder is essential, making sure that the job is carried out safely and then meeting the quality standards set out in national building regulations. Our excellent Building and Consultancy Service at the council is a source of advice, support and regulation - making sure that homeowners are protected from rogue builders."

Homeowners will be warned to get at least three quotes for their work, use a written contract, not deal in cash and not offer huge deposits up front.

The campaign launches this month with a citywide poster campaign, information leaflets and updates on www.birmingham.gov.uk/nailtherogues.

Homeowners can contact Birmingham City Council's Building and Consultancy Services on 0121 675 7006.