GGF Highlights Importance of Operating Legally

GGF Highlights Importance of Operating Legally

In the last 18 months, the GGF has stepped up its support for Members dealing with consumers, to ensure they continue to operate legally, simultaneously the GGF has also acted on those companies who are in breach of legislation and regulation.

At a time when there are reports that the industry is “booming”, it is important that all companies remain fully aware of their legal obligations.

A recent case of a company in Norfolk was pursued by Trading Standards and resulted in a director of a local window company being convicted ofcontravening professional diligence (under consumer protection regulations) and fraudulent trading. The director was sentenced to; 6 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 21 months for the fraudulent trading, 3 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 21 months and for lack of professional diligence 200 hours’ unpaid work.

Trading Standards added that further proceedings will continue under the Proceeds of Crime Act in respect of compensation and costs orders.

Last month the GGF launched the revised and updated GGF Consumer Code of Practice to help companies follow best practice when dealing with consumers. The GGF’s legal advisers contributed to the publication of the revised Code to ensure that companies adhering to the Code of Practice would be clear on their obligations to abide with consumer legislation.  

In addition, the GGF Membership and Review has expelled two companies from GGF Membership. One for non-compliance with legal standards and the other for breach of contract with the consumer.

John Agnew, GGF Group Managing Director commented:

“It is clear that companies are being held to account by the enforcement bodies and the GGF will continue to support its Members to comply with the law and to protect themselves and their customers.”

The new GGF Consumer Code of Practice is available for free download here