Double glazing and conservatory installer Sun Shield Products Ltd has become the first firm in the Exeter to gain the high standards required to gain accreditation into the prestigious Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS).

There are less than 150 Ombudsman accredited double glazing and conservatory firms in the UK. Showing that Sun Shield have passed a stringent accreditation process of which 40 per cent of companies who apply fail to get past the first hurdle.

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.

Alex Newby (Managing Director) of Sun Shield Products, 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. With over 25 years experience in the conservatory industry Sun Shield are constantly battling the reputation cowboy installers have imposed on reputable companies and are pleased to see that iron clad consumer protection is now on offer, and that we offer it."

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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.

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 said: "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, said: "This is great news for Sun Shield and great news for consumers in the Exeter area. Gaining DGCOS accreditation really is a testament to the hard work and quality of service that Sunshield has offered over the years, this really is a select group within the industry and any firm who has gained membership has truly earned it."

Before the official launch of DGCOS in December 2009, four years of research was undertaken and a two year pilot scheme involving 3,600 consumers was carried out in the North West over the past two years.

What the Ombudsman scheme offers, which other trade bodies do not is, access to independent arbiters, a ten year guarantee of installation with an insurance guarantee to underwrite it and protection of deposits up to £50,000 or 25% of the contract value.

There is also a compensation fund to honour any awards issued by the Ombudsman during a dispute. This to guarantee the consumer any financial awards in full if the installer does not or cannot come up with the funds.

For further information Tel: 01395 23 29 23