The National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) is one of the first to make sure that maximum standards are maintained in every home, especially where kitchens and bathrooms are concerned! So the latest initiative by its member, the Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installers (iKBBI), is a major step in the right direction.
Andrew Leech, executive director of the NHIC, says: “The five-phase installation standards pledge, set out by the iKBBI, is an admirable move towards the very best practice. It aims to change consumer’s often poor perception of kitchen and bathroom installation standards, to the benefit of the industry at large.”
A five-phase plan, it is set to run over a preliminary 18-24 month period, is initially targeted at nine high profile retailers including B&Q, Ikea, Tesco, Wren Kitchens, Magnet, Wickes, Homebase, Intoto and John Lewis Partnership.
Launched by The Rt Hon Brian Binley MP who says: “The plan is set to run over an 18-24 month period and targeted at these major providers. There will be the creation of a foundation standard that all participating retailers can agree and make their own.”
According to iKBBI, the pledge initiative will be completely free of charge to these targeted retail institutions to encourage them to embrace the scheme. Once on board the iKBBI will work closely with their installation departments to understand their ‘modus-operandi’.
Drew Carter, iKBBI’s director says: ‘It’s interesting that the next phase will be the creation of a foundation standard that all participating retailers can agree, build upon and make their own. Later phases are targeted at the measurement of the standards, together with independent accreditation of those installers who operate for the retailer. Over time, the sharing of non-sensitive information is designed to promote great installation businesses, whilst developing those with the willingness to improve and eventually forcing out the rogue trader element.
“This is an exciting initiative that aims to bring about a necessary and positive change. The NHIC together with the iKBBI hopes that the initiative works well for the consumer and should benefit those retailers who participate with the installations standards pledge.”
The NHIC can also see this maximising the introduction of energy efficiency savings and water conservation systems into the very important new kitchen and bathroom arena.
NHIC-PR-09.08.11 (PDF)