I have recently read your Top 10 and found many points of interest and some relevant to the problems associated with installers working for retailers, in particular major multiples.

One area that is often overlooked is the behind-the-scenes work that is done to complete the job - like remedials, dealing with missing or damaged stock and design changes. These go unrewarded most of the time and are almost expected if you want the work.

I found that when working for the majors they did not give the same level of support and commitment to their own approved installers as they would to their own staff, yet expect the same level of loyalty and commitment back. They also expect installers to work within tight margins to get the jobs done, with some being completely unrealistic.

Because of these problems, I decided to stop working for them and concentrate my efforts on building my own design and installation business, which is working very well at present.

As part of my business plan, I joined the iKBBI over a year ago and have used my membership as a key feature in marketing my business. I feel that it has been an integral part of the success of my business so far.

I have looked at the NTG ISR, too, but have found no pressing need to rush into joining them at present and indeed they appear to be more for installers working for retailers, not independent designer/installer companies. 

I feel that the debate between them and who should be leading the way is not going to help either. There is more than one choice out there for electricians, there does not have to be just one for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installers. As long as the KBB industry moves forwards in this direction, it will be better for all concerned, particularly our customers.

I agree with your closing comments on enforcing regulations to eliminate the unqualified cowboys, but feel that the ISR and iKBBI can do more to help this by regular assessment of their own members' work or site visits. Similar to how gas and electrical installers are scrutinised as part of their membership. This may encourage the Government to look at a compulsory scheme for KBB installers, as it would be more self-regulating.