How to Check a Tradesperson Is Who They Say They Are
Simple ways to confirm a tradesperson's identity before they enter your home, from matching names and photos to checking business details.
Letting someone into your home or garden is an act of trust. Before the work begins, it is reasonable to confirm that the person turning up is the one you agreed to hire. Done politely, these checks take minutes and are generally welcomed by professionals, who have nothing to hide.
Why identity matters
Identity is the foundation of every other check. A qualification, a review or a registration number means little if it belongs to someone else. Impersonation does happen: someone borrows a reputable name, a profile photo or a registration number, then performs the work or takes payment under that cover.
Before the booking
Match the details you are given
Compare the information in one place with another:
- The name on the profile or message
- The name on the quote or invoice
- The business name, if there is one
- The name on the account you are asked to pay
Small differences are normal, such as a trading name that differs from a personal name. Unexplained mismatches are worth a question.
Ask for something checkable
Depending on the work, you could ask for:
- A full name and a business name, if they trade as one.
- A registration or membership number for regulated trades. See checking a trade registration.
- A recent example of similar work, ideally with a customer you could contact, with their permission.
- Business insurance details, if the job is large or risky. Ask for the policy document rather than a verbal claim.
Use a platform that checks identity
On Compito, providers are ID-verified, which means you can see that a real person has been matched to the profile you are viewing. This is useful, but it tells you who someone is, not how skilled they are. Our article on what a verified profile does and does not tell you explains the distinction. You can also read how verification fits into the wider approach on the trust page.
On the day
When the person arrives:
- Check the name and face against the profile you were given.
- Ask for photo ID if you are unsure, particularly if someone different has been sent.
- Confirm who is doing the work. Some providers use colleagues or subcontractors. That is acceptable if you were told, but you should know their names.
- Do not hand over keys or access until you are comfortable.
If someone unexpected turns up, you can politely say you need to confirm with the provider first. A genuine professional will understand. If you booked through a platform, contact the provider through the messaging you have already been using.
Warning signs
Look carefully if:
- The person cannot say which booking or which job they are there for.
- They give a different name from the one on the booking and cannot explain it.
- They avoid showing ID when asked politely.
- The vehicle, branding or uniform contradicts what you were told.
These do not prove wrongdoing, but they justify pausing. The article on red flags when hiring lists more.
What not to share
Checking identity is not an invitation to over-share your own details. A provider does not need your date of birth, bank login or copies of your documents to quote for a repair. Share only what the job requires. See data privacy when hiring.
Checking for businesses
If you are hiring a limited company, you can generally look up its registered name and address on the UK government's company register on gov.uk. For sole traders there is no equivalent public register, so you rely on the profile, reviews and references. A sole trader who works under a trading name should still be able to tell you their own name and how to reach them.
Keep a note
Write down the provider's full name, phone number and booking reference somewhere safe. If anything goes wrong, you will have what you need to contact support or take matters further. Taking a quick note at the start also helps if you need to describe the job accurately weeks later, particularly when several people have been involved.
Frequently asked questions
Is it rude to ask a tradesperson for ID?
No. Professionals are used to it, particularly when entering homes. A friendly tone such as "I just like to check, it's my usual routine" works well.
Does an ID-verified profile mean the provider is insured or qualified?
No. ID verification confirms who someone is. It does not, by itself, confirm skills, insurance or registrations. Check those separately when they matter for the job.
What if the wrong person arrives?
Do not let them in until you have confirmed with the provider or platform. You can reschedule without drama if you are not satisfied.