About Us

Torbay Trades was the idea of two well know people. John Reynolds, the man from the radio and Andy Westwood formerly the manager of Sports and Leisure in Torbay. 'We have known each other for more years than I am prepared to admit to', said John.
'Although our careers have taken both of us in different directions we have always stayed in touch, said Andy'.

In 2008 they met up for breakfast, just to catch up, Coincidentally they discovered that they were both thinking the same thing.   They had a lifetime of skills that if combined might actually benefit not only themselves but local tradespeople also. So properties and pools was launched.

Why the name Torbay Trades?

Because www.torbayteignbridgedartmouthand thesouthhams.co.uk is to long
Those are the areas we cover

Why is it free for tradespeople?

1 We have the skills to set it up
2 We are using it to promote our own company
3 We also offer an outstanding internet service designed for tradespeople that see the advantages of marketing online.  More information can be found at www.torbaytrades.info

Are advertising opportunities available?

Yes for suppliers and tradespeople and very clever ones at that.  Contact us for details

What makes this any different to other directories?

1 It is truly local
2 Any money we make we put straight back into marketing Torbay Trades online and in the real world
3 We plan to be here when the recession is over and this directory will be of help to all tradespeople

Can anyone get listed?

You just need to be a working tradesperson working in our local area. 
If you do not see your trade listed in the directory just use the suggest a ‘category link above’.

Does Torbay Trades guarantee work done by tradespeople listed here?

No.  However in the future if the directory proves popular this could be the case.

In the mean time

• Don't be pressurised into having unnecessary work done and beware of 'special offers' which you'll get only if you sign up for them immediately.
• Don't pick the first builder or plumber that you see advertised.
• Do judge companies on past experience. Have you, your friends or your neighbours used a company that proved to be reliable on previous jobs?
• Do find out whether the contractor is a member of a trade association that may give extra security should a dispute arise.
• Contact the relevant trade association to find a member in your area.
• Do ask to see examples of work that the contractor has carried out or references.
• Do ensure the contractor is established, with premises you can visit.
• Be wary if only a telephone number is supplied.
• Invite three or more contractors to quote for the work that needs doing and don't forget to check whether or not the quote includes VAT.
• Unlike estimates, quotations are binding. Check if they're only valid for a specific period of time.
• If not they'll be valid for a reasonable time. So don't take too long to begin deciding whether or not to accept.
• Ensure all tradesmen know exactly what work is to be done, what preparatory work is to be included, when the work should begin and how long it should take, and how the site should be left; that is, clean and tidy with all rubbish removed.
• The things agreed upon should be detailed in the quotation so that both you and the tradesman know exactly what's expected of each other.
• Check that all items are covered on this, including any materials/make of product you specifically requested to be installed.
• The contractor should have insurance which covers damage to your property and your neighbours. Check this. Also, ensure that either the contractor's or your own insurance covers death and personal injury.
• Ask each tradesman who gives you a quote about guarantees, particularly any which are insurance-backed.