Articles & Advice
Guides & Advice
Your guide to installing wallpaper in your home in Malta
Wallpaper is steadily becoming a popular home trend in Malta. Many homeowners are turning to wallpaper to better customise their rooms to their personality and tastes. And with growing demand, more and more stockists are supplying an array of beautiful wallpaper designs and brands to suit all styles and budgets.
If you’ve never used wallpaper in your home before then you may be wondering what all the fuss is about. Why not just stick to a good old-fashioned lick of paint? The truth is that while a creative use of paint can add plenty of colour and drama to any room, wallpaper simply offers decorative appeal that paint never can.
The benefits of adding wallpaper in your home
Here are just a few reasons why wallpaper may be your best bet to add greater individuality to your home.
It showcases your personality – When decorating your home, you want each space to accurately reflect your tastes. And wallpaper really enables you to showcase your unique personality to the max. From clean and minimalist designs all the way to flamboyant floral patterns, wallpaper is a brilliant way to express your inner you. And whether you love animals, books, sports, art, superheroes, travel, or anything else imaginable, you’re bound to find the right wallpaper design that perfectly reflects your passions and can establish the ideal mood for your rooms.
An endless choice of patterns and designs – While paints come in plenty of hues and shades, entering the wallpaper world provides an endless choice of textures, colours, patterns, and designs to make your walls look entirely unique. From simple one-colour designs to classical damasks, abstract motifs, photorealistic murals, and even decals that contain quotes or images, you’re simply spoilt for choice. Textured wallpaper can even add three-dimensional depth and warmth to a room. There really is no limit when you come to design your dream space using wallpaper.
Wallpaper can look great in almost any room, however you need to be aware of potential issues that may cause damage to your wallpaper. For example, if you’re hanging wallpaper in a room without adequate ventilation, this may lead to steam and dampness which will cause the paper to peel. Also, if you have young kids, it’s a good idea to go for highly durable materials that can be easily wiped down of any handprints and smudges. As well as choosing your ideal design, you’ll also need to think practically to ensure your wallpaper lasts.
Makes a feature out of specific spaces – One of the great things about wallpaper is that it can be used sparingly to great effect. You don’t need to cover an entire room in the same pattern. Instead, you might opt to decorate just one wall to transform that space into a real feature that draws the eye. Wallpaper is also great to highlight other features in your room. Say you’re a fan of antique furniture, Art Deco ornaments, or Scandinavian-style joinery, then you can find the perfect wallpaper design that will really complement and amp up that décor style within your room.
Considerations when installing wallpaper in your home
For all its decorative benefits, wallpaper can be a deceptively tricky material to install on your own. You might think that hanging a few strips of paper on a wall is kid’s play, but there are a few important factors to consider before you start the actual wallpapering process. Logistics, space, materials, quality of wallpaper all play a crucial role to the final effect of your chosen design.
Here are some common considerations when preparing to apply wallpaper in your home.
Choosing the right wallpaper types
Not all wallpapers are the same and the sheer number of variations available can be downright confusing. There are paper options, silk-woven, vinyl-coated, fabric-backed, organic textures, peel-andstick wallpapers, and so many other options. Not every wallpaper type will be appropriate for your walls. That’s why it’s essential to first understand which wallpaper material is best suited to your requirements before you even go about selecting your dream pattern. Speaking to an expert is a must here. They will save you on time and money to find the ideal wallpaper variety that is guaranteed to stick to your walls, and which won’t simply peel and fall down after time.
Humidity in the home
The majority of wallpaper brands are manufactured in countries where humidity in homes isn’t a major concern. In Malta, however, humidity continues to be a major issue for many homeowners. With this in mind, you’ll first want to check your chosen wall for any signs of damp or water damage. It’s important to rectify these issues before applying wallpaper to these areas. Otherwise, you might find that your lovely new wallpaper will start to bubble and peel shortly after installing.
Secondly, if certain areas of your home are prone to the effects of humidity, you may want to consider looking into more durable wallpaper materials, such as vinyl coated wallpaper, which can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth. This will ensure your wallpaper will remain in good condition for you to enjoy for many years to come.
Prepping walls
In addition to checking for signs of damp, you will also need to make sure your walls are clean of any nails, cracks, or stains before you start hanging the wallpaper on it. Holes or protrusions will need to be patched up and removed to create an entirely flat surface which won’t cause air bubbles behind the paper. It’s also a good idea to wipe the wall down to remove any dirt and dust. All this ensures that when the paper is applied, it will be bond tightly to the walls. It will also make it easier to align the seams properly. Otherwise, you may find that the wallpaper will begin to move or pull, creating inconsistencies in the overall pattern over time.
Wallpaper installation can be a messy and costly job, especially if you’re new to it. You need to be prime your walls correctly and be gentle when handling the sheets. Incorrect installation can cause the wallpaper to droop, peel, or even tear, which will mean you’ll waste money replacing sheets or having to re-do entire walls.
Appropriate glues and adhesives
Just as there are many variations of wallpaper, you’ll also need to consider the right glue or adhesive that is right for your paper. Unfortunately, finding the right adhesives is not that easy in Malta as many home décor shops don’t stock a large supply of wallpaper glues. However, there are several wallpaper specialists who ship over good quality adhesives from the UK and other countries where wallpaper is more popular. Choosing the wrong adhesive may not only damage the wallpaper, rendering it unusable, but it can potentially cause damage to walls. That’s why it’s always best to tread carefully and speak to an expert before you make your purchase.
Hire a professional wallpaper installer
The above considerations are all to be made before you even start hanging the actual paper on the wall. When you come to the wallpapering itself, it’s important to know that there’s a definite skill and talent to hanging wallpaper correctly. You’ll need to ensure the paper is hanging straight with the use of a spirit level, seams are aligned precisely, adhesives are correctly and evenly pasted. You will also need to be adept at cutting away the excess paper to fit the length of your wall. A small mistake may cause rips or tears in the material.
That’s why it’s always recommended to hire a professional. They can ensure that the right steps are taken to prep and prime your walls and get the job done with minimal hassle and hiccups, meaning all you’ll have to do is sit back and enjoy your newly decorated room.
Ready to wallpaper your home? Then it’s time to call in the pros. Explore all verified wallpaper stockists and specialists listed on Check Your Traders here.
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Inspiration
The Check Your Traders €5k Bedroom Makeover Sponsored by Carmelo Delia
At Check Your Traders, we love to help Maltese consumers in any way we can. From verifying local tradespeople so that you can look forward to quality workmanship to providing insightful guides so that you can navigate the local trades market with confidence, we’ve got your back for all your home project needs.
Last year, we took this promise one step further by organising our special €5k Bedroom Makeover competition in partnership with Carmelo Delia home shop, and a team of the finest verified tradespeople listed on our platform. The winner would receive a complete bedroom refurbishment worth €5000 that would cover everything from 100% Italian-quality furnishings courtesy of Carmelo Delia, interior design, gypsum works, painting and wallpapering, lighting … basically, the works! The end result would be a showroom-perfect bedroom that’s the stuff of home décor dreams.
Interest in the competition was huge. We received 100s of entrants, before announcing our prize draw winner this summer. Beloved radio host Jay even joined us to surprise our lucky winners Daniel and Charlene right outside their door.
The team behind the bedroom makeover
To complete the bedroom makeover, we put together a true dream team of local tradespeople who would join forces to see the project through from start to finish.
After an initial consultation with Daniel and Charlene to better understand their wishes, Kurt from Project 25 set about designing an overall plan to give the room a stylish and modern update that made use of plenty of neutral colours and light. Together with Simone from Carmelo Delia, they picked out an ideal set of furniture that would maximise space within the room while offering clever storage solutions. Based in Valley Road, Birkirkara, Carmelo Delia specialise in super stylish Italian designed furnishings and joinery that offer the finest quality and durability for all your home interior needs.
After gutting the room entirely, Mario and Ruben from Vellson Turnkey Projects took care of replastering the walls to a glass finish and installing a stylish gypsum design to give the room more depth and structure. Plastering complete, it was time for the guys from KIBITEC to install a microcement finish to add a greater sense of texture to select walls. While Joe Borg from J.Borg Decorating Services provided the perfect wallpaper and paint to add more warmth to the room.
Final touches were provided by The Light Shop who supplied customisable light fixtures, YourBlinds who installed a set of high-quality zebra blinds, and Saviour Sultana who installed a brand-new compact air-con unit. The results speak for themselves.
The Final Result
All in all, the entire project was completed in just under 6 weeks. And it’s safe to say that the final reveal left Daniel and Charlene at a loss for words. Everything in their newly refurbished bedroom was impeccably designed and decorated. It was everything they hoped for and more.
“I’m really happy and I really appreciate all the hard work that went into the room. A big thank you to the entire team,” said Charlene once the magical bedroom transformation had sunken in.
You’re both more than welcome!
Now that you’ve seen the amazing workmanship of our verified tradespeople for yourself, feel free to contact them directly so that they can bring your dream home projects to life.
And be sure to follow the Check Your Traders Facebook page for more competitions, giveaways, and fabulous offers.
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Guides & Advice
Looking for pest control services in Malta? Here’s what you need to know.
When you spot insects or rodents running amok in your home, it can come as quite a shock. Not only will the sight of such pests make you feel ill at ease in your home, but creepy crawlies are likely to start causing damage to your property in no time at all. They also spread infection and disease that can be harmful to you, your family, and even your pets.
Unfortunately, due to the islands’ warm weather and humidity, pest problems are a common occurrence in Malta and Gozo. So, if you’re looking to nip your pest infestation in the bud, here’s everything you need to know.
Most common pests in Malta
Before you call in the pest control professionals, it’s good to identify what pests you’re dealing with and the potential problems they can cause within your home.
Ants
Ants may appear relatively harmless however they can quickly infest a home in colonies of thousands, which will cause several health and hygiene problems. Firstly, ants are known to borrow through walls, door frames, skirting, and even wooden furniture, leaving behind holes and little piles of dust and debris. Aside from the damage to your home, ants pose a number of health risks, including spreading bacteria and, in extreme cases, have been known to cause allergic reactions.
Termites
While termites aren’t known to carry diseases harmful to humans, they can cause severe damage in your home by chewing through wooden furniture. Living in a home that’s infested by termites may also be harmful to people prone to allergic reactions and asthma attacks. They also multiply fast, meaning you’ll need to act fast to nip them in the bud.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are without doubt one of the worst pest problems we have in Malta and Gozo. That’s largely due to the country’s warm and humid weather, which spurs cockroach populations to feed and reproduce at an alarming rate. These scavenging insects are known to feast on almost anything, including rotten food, cardboard boxes, leather, soap, and even faecal matter. This means they can spread diseases such as dysentery and gastroenteritis. That’s why it’s crucial to act fast when you spot a cockroach in your house.
“Many people wonder why pests are entering their home in the first place. The answer is usually one of three things: food, water, and shelter. That’s why it’s always recommended to not leave food and crumbs out in the open, on table and countertops. Garbage bins should be adequately sealed and taken out frequently. Humidity in the home will also need to be dealt with as many insects thrive in moist areas. A dehumidifier may be a worthwhile investment to keep certain types of insects out of your home.
Hornets
Oriental hornets are indigenous to the Mediterranean and have become a rising problem in Malta over the past few years. The species is attracted to urbanised areas, often nesting in cracks, ventilators, and air conditioning pipes around homes and offices. They are highly territorial and will aggressively attack if they feel they are being provoked. Worse still, they are capable of inflicting multiple, painful stings that can cause facial swelling and difficulty in breathing, which may require medical attention, especially among young children. For this reason, it is never recommended to approach a hornet’s nest. Always call in the professionals.
Rodents
Dealing with rats or mice in the home is a nightmare situation for anyone. In Malta, they are particularly known to infest homes that are situated close to open fields or abandoned buildings. With their sharp teeth, they can chew on anything they get their paws on, causing holes in walls and cupboards. They also carry a high risk of disease especially when you come in contact with their droppings and saliva, which can be toxic to humans and cause severe infection.
Your 5 most common pest control questions answered
Calling in pest control services is, thankfully, not an everyday occurrence. But that means many of us simply don’t know what to expect. Here we answer some of your most common questions to do with pest control in Malta.
1 – Why do I need a pest control specialist? Can’t I get rid of pests on my own?
Should you be spotting the odd insect or pest every now and then, you may be able to deal with the situation using over-the-counter products available from most supermarkets, such as insect repellent sprays. However, these solutions usually only work for a short period of time. Continued pest problems will require a professional pest control service. Pest control technicians possess the expertise to locate where certain pest problems are stemming from and can provide high-quality pesticides and treatments to resolve the issue for good.
2 – Is pest control safe for children and pets?
This answer will largely depend on the variety and quantity of pest treatments used in your home. However, generally speaking, pest control specialists pride themselves on offering low-risk and environmentally friendly solutions that will ensure your children and pets won’t be harmed. Furthermore, such specialists will be bound by rigorous industry safety regulations and guidelines which ensure their products are safe for humans. Whenever in doubt, or should a member of your family (including your pets) suffer from certain medical conditions, it is always best to speak to your pest control expert who will be able to take such factors into consideration and provide guidance before treating your home.
3 – Do I need to leave my home during fumigation?
Here again, the answer will largely depend on the variety of pest your home is being treated for. Most pest control experts recommend staying away from your home for around two to four hours after fumigation. In rare cases, you may be required to stay outside your home for up to 24 hours. However, it may also be completely fine for you to stay at home during the procedure should the products be entirely safe. It is also common for pest technicians to ask you not to approach areas that have been treated for anywhere between 30 mins to an hour to ensure the treatment has had ample time to take effect.
4 – How do I prepare before my home is fumigated?
It is always recommended to ensure your home is clean and clutter-free before pest control begins the fumigation process. Move furniture or appliances away from corners of rooms to give the technician easy access to treat such areas. Also, keep countertops clear and be sure to cover or store away any food. Mopping or vacuuming floors and wiping down surfaces is never a bad idea as it may get rid of pest eggs or droppings.
If you have babies or young toddlers in the home, be sure to store away or cover up any cribs and toys. Children tend to put things in their mouths, so it’s best to reduce the risk of them coming into contact with objects that have been exposed to pesticides. Your pest technician will be able to provide more preparation tips specific to your home and pest problem.
5 – How quickly does pest control treatment work?
While the exact timeframe will depend on the pest in question, in most cases you’ll notice the effects within the first few days after fumigation. In some cases, you might see an initial increase in pest activity within your home after treatment. This isn’t a cause for alarm and is actually a good sign. That’s because it shows the pesticides are working and have begun to disrupt the pests’ normal habits, causing them to perish. While pesticides are highly effective, some pests are extremely tenacious, which may require several visits from the professionals in order to fully eradicate the problem.
Are you experiencing a pest problem in your home? Then there’s no time to lose! Contact a verified pest control specialist today.
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Community Content
Is parquet flooring the right choice for you? Here are 6 undeniable reasons why it is!
More and more local homeowners are discovering the versatility and beauty that parquet flooring can bring to their homes. For years, tiles have dominated the local home decor industry because of their durability and affordability. However, parquet flooring has come a long way in recent years and today it easily competes with tiles in terms of quality and price.
If you’re considering parquet flooring but aren’t sure whether it’s the right option for you, then it’s time to have a chat with Chris Parquet Installation. With over XX years of experience in the flooring trade, and 100s of satisfied customers, CPI have a reputation for reliability and quality service for any type of wooden flooring installation. They can provide you with in-depth advice on a wide range of wooden flooring and wall options— including solid wood, patio decking, wall panels, cork flooring, and laminate—that suit all tastes and budgets.
The benefits of parquet flooring over tiles
Here are six undeniable reasons why parquet and wooden flooring are a fabulous décor option for any home in Malta and Gozo.
Affordability
In the past, parquet and solid wood flooring were considered something of a luxury item that only few could afford. Today, parquet solutions come in a great range of options that cater to all budgets. This means parquet easily competes with most tile options in terms of affordability. It is also typically cheaper to install parquet flooring than laying tiles. This makes parquet a truly affordable option to bring greater character to your home.
You may be surprised to take a look at a typical quote for a 30sqm room, and how parquet compares to fairly standard tiles:
Easy installation
Unlike tile laying, parquet flooring can be installed very quickly with minimal disruption to your household. Most wooden flooring makes use of a tongue or groove system, which means individual pieces can be slotted and glued into place at a fast pace. While tile laying creates a fair amount of dust and harmful particles in the air, which is difficult to clean up afterwards, parquet installation is very clean and leaves behind next to no mess. An average sized room will only take a few hours to complete, meaning you can transform your room or roof within a day, wipe it down, and enjoy your brand-new wooden flooring immediately.
Warmer feeling
Tiles can be particularly cold underfoot, especially during the winter months. Unless you are ready to invest in underfloor heating, tiles can make a house feel cold and uninviting. Parquet, on the other hand, retains a comfortable and welcoming mood in any room, whatever the season. It’s an especially great option for families with young children who can easily catch a chill from ice-cold tiles in the colder seasons or when the air conditioning is on full blast in the summer.
A more natural look
Modern tiles can often look rather sterile and characterless. The warmth and variation of design found in parquet makes it a more appealing flooring option that gives off a natural, authentic look. Today, parquet comes in many grades, colours, and finishes, making it easy to find the perfect match to suit any style of space.
Durability & Versatility
One of the big advantages of tiles is their durability. However, parquet flooring options have vastly improved in recent years. This means they are much more durable and easier to maintain, ensuring they will look great for many years to come. Furthermore, thanks to innovative manufacturing techniques that have increased the durability of parquet materials, parquet and wooden decking can easily be installed in rooms and spaces that are prone to get wet, such as bathrooms and pool areas. This makes parquet a truly versatile flooring option that is suitable in any room.
Better sound insulation
Parquet flooring absorbs sound and impact noises much more effectively than tiles. This means parquet can act as an extra layer of sound insulation, reducing reverberations and walking sounds around your home. All in all, you can look forward to a cosier, more peaceful home that radiates with an authentic, natural charm.
Whether you wish to install parquet in your new home or are looking to refurbish a room, parquet is an affordable option that offers beauty, warmth, and versatility. Contact Christ Parquet Installations on +356 9945 9233 or follow them on Facebook to discuss your next parquet project.
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The Trader's Handbook
The Importance Of Customer Reviews & How To Get More
Unlike other business directories, Check Your Traders champions genuine customer feedback and reviews. That’s because we want to create greater accountability within the local trades market and help the professionals gain the praise and exposure they deserve.
Here’s everything you need to know about the importance of reviews to your business on Check Your Traders. Further below, we even share our top tips to help you receive more reviews from your satisfied clients.
How Customer Reviews Benefit Your Business
Benefit from a higher ranking
Reviews directly improve your ranking on the Check Your Traders platform. The more genuine customer reviews and ratings you receive, the higher you’ll rank in our search results. This ensures that when consumers are searching for your service in our directory, your business profile will be among the first to pop up, which makes it more likely for potential clients to reach out to enquire about your services. That’s why it’s absolutely essential that you always invite customers to leave you a review of your work when you complete a job.
Furthermore, unlike social media where anyone can post anything, making it difficult for customers to know who to trust, at Check Your Traders we check each and every review to ensure it’s genuine. This ensures no one is posting fake reviews to gain unfair advantage in the rankings.
Reviews improve transparency
To improve transparency for all consumers, our profile ranking system is not limited to positive reviews. It takes into consideration all your accumulated reviews, including any negative ones. This essentially means that if a business were to have the greatest number of reviews, but they were all negative, it would still rank first within its trades category. But this is far from good news! This system is designed to point consumers in the right direction so they can steer well clear of badly rated businesses in favour of the tradespeople who have received the most positive reviews.
Gain a unique insight into your customers
Ever wanted to know what your customers really think about your workmanship and service? By analysing the reviews left by your customers, you can better understand how you’re delivering on overall customer satisfaction. This is a great way to find out what you’ve been doing right and to check whether you can be improving on any aspects of your business to boost your ratings sooner rather than later.
Enjoy better visibility on our platform
Finally, there’s one additional and highly advantageous benefit to getting more frequent reviews for your business on Check Your Traders. That’s because the most recent reviews are always featured prominently on our homepage. This ensures your business will enjoy extra visibility on our website at no extra cost. So, if you receive regular reviews from clients, you’re more likely to feature on our homepage for longer and catch the eye of more potential clients.
3 Top Tips To Get More Reviews
Not sure how to get more reviews on your Check Your Traders profile? Here’s are 3 easy steps for you to encourage more clients to leave you positive feedback on your profile today:
1 – Hand out business cards
At Check Your Traders we can provide you with a range of marketing materials to help your business look more legit and professional. This includes designing business cards with your hard-earned Check Your Traders badge to show clients that you are one of Malta’s verified tradespeople.
Along with your general contact details, your business card will also feature your official Check Your Traders profile link. This is an effective tool to point clients in the right direction should they wish to find out more about you online. It’s also the easiest way to share your Check Your Traders profile link with a client in person. It sure beats scribbling down online addresses on bits of paper or having clients rely on their memory.
After completing a job, feel free to hand your client a card and invite them to leave a review on your profile. If the job went well, they’ll usually be more than happy to write a positive review. What’s more, clients can easily pass your business card on to friends should they wish to recommend your services.
If you’re interested in getting your official Check Your Traders business card, then get in touch with our Support Team today.
2 – Send a thank you message
Sending a thank you email or message to a client is a great way to show your appreciation for their custom. It also comes with several benefits for your business. It helps strengthen your relationship with customers which can lead to return business, it builds a lasting positive image for your brand, and furthermore it encourages clients to praise your business through social media, word of mouth, or an online review.
So, after finishing a project, why not send your clients a positive message to show your appreciation. Before you sign off, you can invite them to leave you a review and express how their feedback goes a long way in helping you improve your business and customer service. Be sure to include a direct link to your Check Your Trader profile. That crucial review will be just one click away!
3 – Share you profile on the socials
Just because you’re new to Check Your Traders, doesn’t mean you’re new to the industry. You may already have tons of satisfied customers to your name, all of whom may be willing to leave you a review and recommend your services.
That’s why it’s always a great idea to re-share your Check Your Trader profile on your social media profiles from time to time. You can even leave a short invite for people to leave you a review. Not only is this a great way to promote your services and emphasise your verified status in the market, but it will likely catch the attention of previous customers who may want to leave you a thank you for a job well done in the past.
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The Trader's Handbook
Improve Your Telephone Etiquette In 6 Easy Steps
While texting, email, and social media continue to be the most popular forms of communication nowadays, many people still prefer a direct phone conversation with their tradesperson before hiring them for the job. That’s because a simple phone call can reveal a lot about your professionality and the type of customer experience your clients can expect to receive.
This essentially means poor telephone etiquette can cost you clients. No matter how great you are at your job, if a client feels you are rude or unhelpful over the phone, it’s very unlikely that you will win them back.
The good news is that it’s really easy to make clients feel they can trust you over the phone. Discover our 6 top tips to improve your telephone etiquette and deliver a positive customer experience on every call.
1. Answer calls in a quiet area
As a tradesperson, you will more than likely need to answer client calls while you’re out on the job. This may mean a call may crop up while you’re on a busy worksite with lots of background noise around you. As much as possible, only answer calls when you can speak in a quiet space. If necessary, head to your car or van, or move into a private room. This will ensure you won’t need to shout over the noise in order for the client to hear what you’re saying. Ultimately, you want the client to feel as if they are dealing with a professional who is dedicating their full attention to their call as soon as you pick up.
2. Introduce yourself and your business
Any phone call you receive on your business line could be a potential lead. That’s why it’s always a good idea to answer calls by introducing yourself first. This will ensure the caller knows exactly who they are dealing with, which will put them at ease. Rather than answering with a question – “Hello, who is this?”- take charge of the conversation by introducing your name, business, and asking how you can be of assistance: “Hello, this is John from Check Your Traders. How can I help you?” This will establish a professional tone from the very start of the call.
3. Clarify who is calling you
Always clarify who you are speaking to. It may be a small detail, but research shows that we experience a positive reaction when businesses use our name. That’s because we are drawn to the sound of our names. It also helps humanise the phone call. As a tradesperson and business owner, this is an important step that will work in your benefit because it creates a more personal interaction between yourself and the client. A simple gesture like using a client’s name may mean they’ll be more inclined to hire you for the job over a competitor who may sound cold or uninterested.
Furthermore, by establishing the name of the client at the beginning of the call, you can sidestep the awkward situation of having to ask for a name at the end of the call or, worse still, at a later date should you have to call them back with additional details.
4. Use a pleasant and friendly voice
When you are dealing with a client face-to-face, they can learn a lot about you from your posture, the expression on your face, and many other non-verbal cues. Over the phone, you need to rely on your voice to sell yourself and instil client trust. That why it’s essential to develop a friendly and welcoming telephone voice that sounds confident and in control. Don’t talk down to the ground or into your chest, as this may make your voice sound mumbled and unclear. Sometimes it’s important to add a little brightness to your voice because a neutral tone may make you sound uninterested or bored. A top tip is to speak with a smile on your face. This will automatically lend a friendlier tone and clarity to your speech that will help the client warm to you.
5. Listen and take notes
As a professional tradesperson, it’s highly recommended that you carry a notebook with you at all times. When a client calls, be ready to listen attentively to what they are saying and write down notes. Firstly, this is beneficial for you, as it will help you remember details following the call. This is especially handy when you have several clients with different jobs to follow up on. Secondly, you don’t ever want the client to be reminding you of what you should and shouldn’t be doing for their projects. This will frustrate clients and force them to lose trust in you. Having notes at hand will make it easier for you to fulfil their requests to the letter.
6. Establish next steps with the client
Before ending the call, reiterate any points discussed with the client. This will ensure you’re both on the same page and that you have all the information you need to follow up on their inquiry or request.
Also, if you’re serious about turning your leads into closed deals, then it’s also important to establish next steps. Whether it’s setting up an on-site consultation or sending over a quotation, clarify any contact details and follow-up appointments while you have the client on the line. Should you need to follow up with a client via another call, be sure to clarify the best time to call them. This will make it easier for you to reach the client at a time convenient for them, which is a gesture they’ll appreciate.
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Community Content
How To Make A Complaint About A Tradesperson
There are no guarantees when you’re hiring a tradesperson for your jobs. Sometimes, even after you’ve done your homework to ensure a tradesman is vetted and even if they’ve come with a glowing review from a trusted friend, you may find you’re dissatisfied with the work provided.
While these situations can be incredibly frustrating, it’s important to remember there are official procedures in place in Malta that are designed to help you as a consumer.
So, if you’re unhappy with any work or services carried out in your home, you can follow the following steps to better protect yourself and resolve the issue:
Use a verified tradesperson listed on Check Your Traders
The best way to avoid an unprofessional tradesman from the start is to hire a verified tradesperson listed on our platform. That’s because we carry out a thorough verification process on each of our traders to ensure they offer quality service, fair pricing, and excellent workmanship. You can even read through the genuine reviews and ratings left by past customers to get a better insight into which tradesman is right for your job. All this information will help you hire a genuine professional and enjoy a smooth process from beginning to end.
Protect yourself by being prepared
At the start of any project with a tradesman, be sure to have all agreements in writing. This will ensure you have all the important information – such as sales contracts, costs, timelines, promise of works to be completed – in hand should you ever need to lodge a complaint down the line.
It’s also a good idea to keep photographic evidence of works, especially if you are concerned about how they’re progressing. If anything looks suspicious or not up to scratch, a simple photograph is the best way to record these problems. Such photographs will come in useful should you need to provide evidence to an outside organisation to settle a dispute.
Approach the tradesperson directly
In case of a dispute with a tradesperson, it’s always recommended to first speak to them directly before escalating the issue further. Express your grievances as calmly as possible and request that they rectify the situation. Here, you can also rely on your saved documentation and photographs to clarify any issues. If you are dealing with a truly professional tradesperson, they should recognise that their reputation is everything. An unsatisfied customer is bad news for a tradesperson as it will more than likely affect their business negatively. So, you may find they’ll be willing to find a solution to the situation as quickly as possible.
Provide the tradesperson with an opportunity to resolve issue
Following a verbal complaint, the tradesperson is usually allowed a reasonable amount of time to resolve the issue. Should the tradesperson not comply within a few weeks, then you should submit a formal complaint in writing which details the exact specifications of the task in question, your grievances with the works, and how you feel the issue should be reasonably and satisfactorily resolved.
Written complaints should be sent via registered mail to the tradesperson’s official business address. Ideally post the complaint as a signed for delivery letter, which will let you know your mail has been safely received.
Alternatively, you can send complaints to the tradesperson’s business email address. Check if your email provider offers the option to use a send/receipt notification. This will notify you when the trader opens the email, providing you with proof that they’ve seen the complaint. Keep in mind that any written complaints must be sent within two months from when you first realised there was issue with works or services.
Lodge an official complaint with the MCCAA
If you find that the tradesperson is ignoring your complaints or is unwilling to resolve the issue, then it’s time to escalate the situation. Locally, consumer complaints can be filed with the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) which was set up to safeguard consumers’ interests and promote sound business standards in the local market.
There are various ways to lodge a complaint with the MCCAA:
Visit the MCCAA in person – You can submit your written complaint in person at one of the MCCAA’s offices in Blata l-Bajda, Valletta, or in Xewkija, Gozo.
By mail – You can send your written complaint to the Director, Complaints and Conciliation Directorate, Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority, Mizzi House, National Road, Blata l-Bajda, HMR 9010.
Email – You can send an email complaint to consumer.rights@mccaa.org.mt
Online – You can even lodge a complaint via the MCCAA’s Online Form
To ensure you don’t experience any delays in the process, you should include the following documents and information along with your complaint:
Details of the case;
Copies of all relevant documentation, such as copies of receipts, sales contract, and guarantees;
Your I.D. Number;
Your address and contact numbers;
The trader’s details and contact numbers.
You must also make a statement in your email/letter giving consent to the MCCAA to divulge your details to the trader/entity involved in your case following the Data Protection Act.
Next steps
Once the MCCAA has received and evaluated your complaint, you’ll be appointed an official complaints officer to oversee your case with your tradesperson. The officer will do all they can to reach an amicable resolution between yourself and the tradesperson. However, should no agreements with the trader be reached within 10 working days, the officer will guide you on the options available to you going forward, including how to take your case to the Consumer Claims Tribunal.
Leaving a review on Check Your Traders
Should you ever have a bad experience with a local tradesperson, you can really help your fellow consumers by leaving a review on Check Your Traders. Both your positive and negative feedback will provide other consumers with insight into your experience, allowing them to make more informed decisions about who they hire to carry out their jobs. Should we see that a tradesperson listed on our site is not abiding by our standards, we will even remove their listing from our platform.
With your help and through your reviews, we can help create a better system of accountability in Malta, ensuring that the professionals are lauded for their quality work and excellent customer service, while the amateurs are flagged for their unprofessionalism.
CONTACT DETAILS
Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA)
Phone: +356 2395 2000
Email: info@mcca.org.mt
The Check Your Traders complaints team
Phone: +356 2152 2202
Email: support@checkyourtraders.com
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Community Content
4 Ways To Improve Your Home With JCR’s Quality Products
Are you a new homeowner doing up your first house? Or are you a keen DIYer looking to carry out your next home improvement project? Whatever your situation, you can never be too careful in choosing the right products for your home. By sourcing the best materials from the start, you can rest assured you’ll save on headaches, repairs, and unnecessary costs down the road.
If you’re looking for great quality products for your home, then it’s time to head to JCR Imports in Birkirkara. Founded back in 1982, JCR has built a reputation for stocking high quality home improvement products and materials at super competitive prices. Today, JCR represents many leading brands, including Edilchimica, La Matassina Technology, Siciliana Gessi, Novaglass, and Licata. What’s more, a visit to JCR also means you’ll get expert advice from their friendly team, who can guide you on the best supplies and solutions for your home.
Here are four ways how JCR can help dramatically improve your home inside and out.
1. Find your perfect tiles for every room & space
JCR stocks a wide range of quality tiles. They have a great selection of designs and finishes that will suit all kinds of rooms and spaces, from floors, bathrooms, kitchens, and even outdoors areas like terraces and balconies. Whether you’re after a classic look or an ultra-modern finish, you can rest assured that the tile of your choice is highly durable, long-lasting, and offers a luxurious look. Plus, if you’re hoping to do a DIY job, you can also pick up excellent quality tile adhesives and spacers. The JCR team will be able to guide you on all the best products they have in store to lay your tiles with ease.
2. Make sure your home is watertight & protected against the rain
Despite the relatively low levels of rainfall that Malta experiences, rain damage continues to be a major headache for Maltese homeowners. Every winter, many new- and old-build houses continue to experience water leaks through their roofs and walls. This causes costly damage to paint, gypsum soffits, and can even accelerate growth of harmful mould around the house. That’s why it pays to invest in quality waterproofing products that will help protect your house from heavy rain. JCR stocks a variety of durable waterproofing solutions, including liquid membrane, bitumen rolls, and geo textiles, that will solve any leakage problems and ensure maximum protection of your home.
3. Keep your home looking cleaner & fresher with good quality paint
When trying to save costs on home decor projects, many homeowners tend to opt for cheap quality paint, thinking it’ll be just as good as any other paint. But cheap paint is rarely a good idea. It won’t cover surfaces properly and will not last as long, meaning you’ll end up having to redo your walls in a few years’ time, costing you more in the long run. Good quality, extra-breathable wall paint is a great investment for your home. Its finish will ensure your home feels cleaner and the colour will keep its lustre for much longer. Good quality paint will also help hide fingerprints and smudges, great for if you have young kids running around the house. JCR’s expert team can help you select the right paint for your requirements. They offer a great range of paints, colours, and finishes for all wall surfaces and for all budgets.
4. Prevent costly repairs with high-quality plumbing products
When it comes to the plumbing of your home, you want to make sure you’re using quality products. A fault or failure down the line can result in lots of disruption in your home and very costly repairs. Good quality plumbing products are built to higher manufacturing standards, meaning they are more durable and less prone to damage. JCR specialises in a great selection of quality plumbing products, including shower channels, syphoned gullies, electro-weld gratings, and gratings. By installing durable products form the get-go, you’ll save on repairs and repeat work in the future.
Explore JCR Imports’ full range of products and home improvement solutions on www.jcrimports.com.mt. You can also reach out to the team for advice by dropping them a line at info@jcrimports.com.mt or giving them a call on +356 2144 2466.
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Community Content
Looking for the best quality tool brands in Malta? C&C Technik have you covered.
Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, having the right tools at hand is always half the battle. When you’re in the middle of a home improvement job, the last thing you need is for your tools to fail on you or let you down. Not only is this incredibly frustrating and time wasting, but it will also harm your reputation as a tradesman.
That’s why it’s important to choose your tools well. So, if you’re looking for expert advice and the best tool brands for your work, you need not look further than C&C Technik. Here are three top reasons why you must check out this leading local supplier of power tools, hand tools, machinery, and industrial consumables.
1. An unrivalled reputation backed by world-leading brands
When a company has been around for over three decades, it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about the industry they operate in. Established by founder Pio Vella over 30 years ago, C&C Technik has steadily grown in reputation thanks to a highly experienced team that is truly passionate about helping local tradespeople find the best tools for their requirements and budgets. Customers also point to C&C Technik’s excellent aftersales service as a key reason why they keep returning.
Today, the company runs two stores, conveniently located in St. Venera and Mosta, and represents over 30 top tool brands. They stock Narex, Ruko, DUSS, Femi, Festool, and many more. In fact, the majority of the world’s biggest tool brands have made exclusive deals with C&C to stock their products locally. That’s because international brands only want to be represented by the very best. These are truly exceptional tools that are highly reliable, super-efficient, and promise long lifespans. You’d be hard pressed to find a better range of quality tools from any other local supplier.
2. A super convenient tool hire service
With so many types of tools available for all kinds of niche jobs, it’s pretty impossible for most tradespeople to own everything on the market. Yet, every now and then a job will crop up which needs that one specific tool which you don’t have. But why spend money on a piece of equipment you’re only going to use once or twice at most?
Thankfully there’s now an easy solution. C&C Technik are launching a super convenient tool hire service. There’s simply no other service like this available in Malta. You can pick and choose from a wide range of top-of-the-line products, all of which can be booked online, over the phone, in person, or through the store’s social media channels. What’s more, tools can even be delivered direct to where you are, saving you the hassle of having to take time out of your busy work schedule.
All tools available are always next-to-new and will be serviced and replaced regularly to ensure you’re getting a quality piece of equipment that is fit to tackle the job at hand. The team is also happy to provide one-on-one instruction for more specialist tools.
3. A team that boasts expertise & experience
When you’re looking to purchase a new tool, you want advice from someone who has been on the job and actually knows what they’re talking about. The entire in-store team at C&C Technik has years of on-the-job experience covering a wide range of trades and skillsets, from woodwork and electrical to construction, automotive, and more.
Every member of this friendly team is happy to talk you through the different brands, products, features, and all the latest tools in stock. The in-store and aftersales teams are there to help you find the right tools to get any job done right. So whatever question you have, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting expert knowledge from someone who understands the intricacies of your job.
Check out the best tools available on the island by visiting one of C&C Technik’s two stores located on Canon Road, St Venera and Constitution Street, Mosta. The team is always happy to answer your questions. Give them a call on +356 21446798 or drop them a line at info@cctechnikmalta.com and they’ll be in touch as soon as possible.
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Community Content
4 Reasons Why Cars & More Clinched 3 Major Awards
Burmarrad-based motor dealership Cars & More made a huge impression at this year’s Local Business Awards, scooping up three major prizes.
It was the first time that the prestigious awards body, which celebrates the crème de la crème of Maltese businesses, opened up the ceremony to the local automotive sector. Cars & More couldn’t have hoped for a better debut, taking home awards for Best Local Automotive Services Company, Best Automotive Customer Sales, and Best Pioneering & Emerging Business.
Here are four undeniable factors that helped the dealership clinch three top awards.
1. Reviews rave about the team’s outstanding service
One of the greatest aspects about the Local Business Awards is that customer opinions have a big part to play in the process. In fact, all nominees are shortlisted based on customer reviews, which are then passed onto a panel of impartial judges who carry out independent checks. This guarantees companies have proven they are delivering on what they promise and offer a top-notch service.
Since they first entered the local motor scene, Cars & More have continued to rack up 5-star reviews and positive feedback from satisfied clients. Many have singled out the team’s helpfulness, trustworthiness, and reliability from start to finish when purchasing their vehicles. People also love the great prices and the team’s expert knowledge and guidance for a hassle-free, all-inclusive service with no hidden costs.
2. A full suite of car care services
Cars & More has grown into one of the island’s best go-to dealerships for all things motor related. Not only do they sell an exceptional selection of approved and pre-owned vehicles, but the team also specialises in a full range of additional services. Whether you’re looking for back-to-shiny-new valeting, expert paint correction, or professional car accessory installation (including parking aids), the team goes to great lengths to deliver the highest standards of workmanship possible.
3. Personalised service every time
Clients feel safe when doing business with Cars & More, and that’s because the dealership comprises a tight-knit team that knows the motoring business inside out. Operating exclusively from their premises in Burmarrad, Cars & More keeps a tight grip on its operations and doesn’t work in conjunction with any other dealerships. This ensures they are able to maintain a personalised service and exacting standards when dealing with each and every client.
4. Commitment to quality and transparency
Not only have Cars & More proven to be a hit with customers, the judges at the Local Business Awards were also mightily impressed. As part of the evaluation process, an anonymous judge visited the Cars & More premises in Burmarrad to inspect everything from their customer service to the quality of the vehicles on offer.
The judges were keen to highlight Cars & More’s value for money, clearly set prices, and well-maintained vehicles all sold with warranty. This gives customers further peace of mind that when they deal with Cars & More, they are guaranteed to get a first-class experience coupled with quality cars and products every time.
Cars & More’s flawless delivery, readiness to go the extra mile, and fantastic customer reviews and recommendations, has certainly proved to be a winning formula. Visit www.cam.com.mt today for all your motoring needs.
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