[krrrh]

I've never lived in London, but I find this story intriguing, esp given the stories of the rigorous exams needed to become a black cab drive in Lomdon.

I'd expect that there are private certifications or organizations that guarantee a certain level of competency. Otherwise some sort of review site for contractors like Angies list should either exist or be a massive opportunity in a market like you describe.

[justincormack]

There are private certifications eg [1] and review sites eg [2].

[1] http://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/find-an-electrician/

[2] http://www.mybuilder.com/