Keeping you safe – rogue traders, logo misuse, and imitation businesses

As an industry-leading organisation that is trusted with providing training and advice on solid fuel appliances, it is important than consumers can trust the HETAS brand and our registrants. Unfortunately, there have been some instances where individuals attempt to mislead consumers through imitating businesses or the incorrect use of HETAS logos. We are always interested in hearing of any alarming behaviour and encourage consumers to report and situations that feel suspicious.

How to check if a business is registered

If you’re ever unsure if you are speaking to a HETAS registrant, there are a number of ways you can confirm their identity:

• Use our search to find the business via postcode, business name, or business ID number
• Look for the relevant HETAS logo
• Ask to see their HETAS Identity Card
• Check the logo they are using – is it the correct logo for the work they are undertaking?
• Call or email us to check if they are registered

Tips

If you feel like you have encountered a business that has broken the law or acted unfairly, you can report the business to Trading Standards. For example, you can submit a report to Trading Standards if you have:

• been scammed
• interacted with a business that attempted to stop you from using your legal rights
• encountered a business that did not carry out work properly

Citizens Advice can also offer support and provide advice to point you in the right direction. Remaining diligent will ensure you are able to identify potential rogue traders, keeping you safe. Contact us if you are ever unsure and we will be able to provide advice and assistance.

What do the HETAS logos mean?

There are a select number of HETAS logos that businesses may display. You can use the links below to search local businesses that are registered under these schemes to ensure the business you are talking to is displaying the correct logo. Each of these schemes displays competencies in different tasks, making it pertinent to ensure the correct person is completing the correct work.

Only those individuals that have completed the relevant courses and have up to date training may display any of these logos. HETAS have a Primary Authority partnership with Trading Standards, allowing us to effectively tackle the few business that try to misuse the HETAS brand to mislead customers.

If you suspect than an individual is displaying one of our logos without the relevant, up to date training or with the intention of impersonating a HETAS registrant, please contact us at [email protected] with any information and evidence.

Imitation of businesses

We have received reports of rogue traders in the past that have imitated existing, well-respect businesses in an attempt to mislead and scam consumers. These businesses will try to trick consumers into believing they are someone else – often with a much higher reputation. It is also common for these rogue traders to impersonate HETAS Registered Installers, for example, when they do not have the required qualification and training. In these circumstances, being wary of their claims and ensuring you are speaking to the person they claim to be is key.

Trading Standards can assist; you can report imitation businesses by speaking to an adviser or completing an online form when no advisers are available.