subject: Working Lunch interviews DGCOS [print this page] Working Lunch interviews DGCOS Working Lunch interviews DGCOS
Tony Pickup, founder of the Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme, was interviewed onBBC2's Working Lunch.
"This feature was a follow-up and apology by the BBC," explains Tony, "for misrepresenting DGCOS on the programme earlier in the year. The presenter, Declan Curry, formally apologised on air."
Tony was in good company, in a Working Lunch special on consumer protection, with Esther Rantzen and the Office of Fair Trading talking about doorstop selling and Steve Ridgway, CEOofVirgin Atlantic, commenting.
Working Lunch features the latest business, consumer and workplace news from across the country.
The Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) appeared on the TV programme BBC1 Breakfast in May. Founder Tony Pickup was interviewed on the scheme's comprehensive protection for both installers and homeowners.
"All too often homeowners who've experienced problems with an installation or contractor have no come-back or compensation," observes Tony Pickup. "Reputable installers too can be victims, thanks to professional complainers' who avoid payment. We set up the Ombudsman Scheme (launched in January) to give real protection, with an advice line, mediation, independent inspections and arbitration by The Ombudsman. It's a scheme with real teeth too, as we have the power to suspend and expel members and above all, make legally binding judgements, supported by a Compensation Fund if either party refuses to comply with any awards. In addition, every consumer receives deposit protection and work-in-progress insurance and an Insurance Backed Guarantee."
DGCOS was launched in January 2010 and offers homeowners and installers effective protection if jobs go wrong and communications break down. Homeowners who use DGCOS installers also get access to professional mediators, independent inspectors and a legally binding dispute resolution service, all free of charge. DGCOS ensures that every customer of every member receives deposit and work-in-progress insurance and an insurance-backed guarantee, provided by an approved supplier.
