Consumer Protection, Made Simple
HICS is a leading consumer protection organisation that can cover a wide range of home improvement installations carried out by one of our accredited members.
When you enter into a contract with a member of HICS to install home improvements, you should receive the following.
Vetted and accredited installers
All members have successfully passed our accreditation process for the product (or products) they want to be accredited for.
Consumer advice line
We are on hand to answer any questions you may have once you have entered into a contract with a scheme member.
Deposit and stage-payment protection insurance
Once your installation is registered with us, this covers up to 25% of the contract value (maximum limit of £5,000) for 120 days (from the date you sign the contract). No protection is in place until we have written to you and confirmed the cover. We do not hold any deposits or money you may have paid.
Alternative dispute resolution
Our expert mediators are always on hand to help resolve any disputes you may have with one of our members.
Insurance-backed guarantee (IBG)
An IBG provides protection if your installer ceases (stops) trading and cannot honour the terms of their written guarantee. IBGs range from two to 10 years and the length of the IBG you receive may be different from the length of the written guarantee provided by the member. You will receive an IBG once the member has added in a date on our system to show when they completed your installation.
Access to an ombudsman
As a consumer, you will have free access to an ombudsman service or an equivalent form of alternative dispute resolution if we can’t settle your complaint.
Please read the consumer advice section to understand the protection you may receive and the obligations you have.
Visit consumer advice section“I am proud to support HICS on their mission to protect consumers.”
George Clarke
HICS Brand Ambassador
