Sheffield double glazing and conservatory installer Prestige Window Systems has achieved the high standards required to gain accreditation into The Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS).

DGCOS has been launched with the backing of the people’s consumer champion, Nick Ross, to protect consumers against cowboy operators. The former BBC Crimewatch and Watchdog presenter is the ambassador of the Ombudsman scheme, which provides comprehensive protection for homeowners installing Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Orangeries and associated products by its members.

Bev Hales, Project Co-Ordinator for Prestige Window Systems, said: "We are delighted to have been accepted as a member of DGCOS, which offers consumers access to high quality, vetted installers. DGCOS puts the consumer first. There are lots of trade associations in the building and home improvement sectors, but DGCOS is a scheme you can rely on."

Every homeowner buying from a DGCOS member will receive a free quote and 'Peace of Mind' pack explaining that they will have the full protection of the Ombudsman Scheme behind them as well as a comprehensive guarantee, a Deposit Protection Certificate and an Insurance Backed Guarantee to underwrite the installer’s guarantee should they cease to trade.

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To protect consumers further (and in a first for consumer protection), the DGCOS Compensation Fund will pay out all bona fide claims to compensate homeowners where traders fail to live up to their promises and the Ombudsman rules in their favour.

Nick Ross says: "Consumer agencies champion Ombudsman schemes because they give customers real protection. DGCOS is based on similar schemes which have been successful in other industries. Restoring confidence is important for consumers and all good contractors, and DGCOS can quickly rebuild trust."

"With DGCOS, consumers get accredited installers, independently backed guarantees (even if the firm refuses to help you or goes out of business), free access to industry inspectors, free professional mediation and – if you’re still unsatisfied – a highly regarded Ombudsman who can settle your dispute with the power of the law behind him (again, all free of charge to consumers)."

DGCOS founder, Tony Pickup, who also founded The Quality Assurance Association in 1996, a highly respected trade association attracting over 1250 contractors from all aspects of home improvement and construction, said: "It's long been a major issue in the UK installation sector that trade bodies which promise to help don’t have any teeth and are not much real help when homeowners need it."

Mr Pickup added: "We are delighted that Nick Ross has agreed to be our ambassador. Nick is a hugely respected journalist with the highest of standards, and he has satisfied himself that DGCOS is exactly what the sector needs to protect homeowners and restore consumer confidence."