BiKBBI Launches 'Protected': Cost-Free Installation Solution For Specialist Retailers

Unveiled, by the government sanctioned, British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) at The Houses of Parliament in 2019, the new Protected initiative is set to change the way homeowners find, appoint and transact with specialist kitchen and bathroom installers, bringing about much needed change and unrivalled protection for all.

Protected is a new digital platform that connects homeowners with professionals via the independent retailer, which supports the project and protects the relationship in a number of innovative ways. Retailers simply signpost their customers to the Protected platform, in store or online, who provide some very basic project detail online and are presented with summary costs for consideration. If the consumer wishes to proceed, Protected matches the project requirements with local, independently accredited members of BiKBBI. These members meet and maintain criteria including HMRC verification, police background checks, provision of trade insurance and demonstration of technical ability in accordance with Building Regulations and legislation. 

Homeowners choose an installer based on previous customer ratings, aiding an informed choice, before a free, no obligation home survey is undertaken which includes an itemised breakdown of work, clear pricing with a detailed written quotation, as well as a Trading Standards Approved contract for service for ultimate clarity. 

“Installation is a complex beast and for some retailers can be a real distraction to the business of designing and selling beautiful product. For years retailers have either taken the responsibility, cost and complexity by offering an installation service themselves, recommended to third-parties or not offered installation at all. All ‘traditional’ options pose differing challenges, but I don’t think that has to be the case now,” comments Damian Walters, CEO at BIKBBI. 

Damian added: “For years retailers have engaged BiKBBI in search of a national installation solution. Sadly for them, no proven model was available and therefore we were unable to help. But with advances in technology, our experience in the industry and our access to thousands of professional installers nationally, we’re delighted to be in a position to present them with a real tangible solution.” 

Protected is available to retailers of all sizes, from independent, single showrooms to national chains and merchants. There’s no cost for the retailer and they have the flexibility to offer the solution to those customers they feel would benefit. Damian added: “It’s a bit like consumer finance. It would be for some customers, but not all and therefore it would be for the retailer and their customer relationship to decide when best to offer the service and when not to.” 

Consumers pay for their installation service into a financially protected client account, which is paid to the installer upon satisfactory completion of the project. In the event of dispute, both the consumer and the installer have access to onsite assessment from the BiKBBI to support resolution. The consumer is fully financially protected, as is the installer and the entire proposition is underpinned by insurance-backed workmanship warranties and the high standards set by the BiKBBI. 

Protected provides an installation solution that is professional, robust and protective and is available to retailers, completely free of charge.

For more information about Protected visit www.protectmyinstall.co.uk/retailers and for more information about the BiKBBI visit www.bikbbi.org.uk

Source : BiKBBI

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