Keeping you ahead of the curve

At TradeWatch UK, our goal is to keep you ahead of the curve.

In April 2025, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) implemented updated guidance aimed at providing consumers with stronger protection and clearer understanding when dealing with trades businesses.

Under the new regulations, businesses are required to:

• Offer a transparent, itemized breakdown of payment schedules

• Restrict upfront deposits to a maximum of 25%, except when bespoke materials are necessary

• Provide written terms that clearly outline cancellation rights and expected refund timelines

For consumers, this marks a positive step towards fairer and more consistent practices. For tradespeople, it presents both a challenge and an opportunity to enhance standards and build trust.

To assist businesses in adapting, TradeWatch UK will release a series of updated contract and invoice templates before the new regulations take effect.

These resources will facilitate compliance and clear communication of terms to customers, helping to prevent disputes before they occur.