Answers to some frequently asked questions about Trade Card.
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Is membership of Trade Card free? |
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There is no charge whatsoever to become a member of Trade Card. |
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Is the Trade Card a credit card? |
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No - the Trade Card is not a credit card. The card is a membership card and identifies you as a member of Trade Card when you visit a partner’s Trade Counter. The card also allows you free entry to the National Self Build & Renovation Centre [simply show it each time you visit when you register at reception]. |
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At what stage of my project can I apply for membership? |
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You can join Trade Card at any stage of your project. You will receive more benefit from your membership if you join us right at the beginning. We can help you with your planning. An early visit to The National Self Build & Renovation Centre will help you decide on the type of build, you can order samples and you will get lots of ideas and advice. You can take advantage of our free Estimation and Timber Frame Analysis services too [see below for more information]. |
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Can I choose how I pay for materials? |
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You purchase directly from our partners not through BuildStore. We have negotiated special prices and other benefits with our partners who apply the benefits when you become a member of Trade Card. It is up to you whether you wish to take advantage of your Trade Card credit account [where it applies] or if you choose to pay in cash. |
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Am I under any obligation to spend? |
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You can buy as much or as little as you like from any, or all of our partners. However, with the prices and special offers we can obtain for you there is no reason to buy other than through using your Trade Card!
>> Click here to find out more about Trade Card partners |
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How much will I save when I use my Trade Card? |
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Every self build or renovation project is different and material costs vary from region to region, it is difficult to put an exact figure on a saving. However, if you were to use the Trade Card over the course of your project you would expect to save at least 10-15% on the cost of materials. |
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Can anyone else use my Trade Card? |
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Your builder or project manager can order materials on your behalf through your Trade Card. Just tell us when you fill in your Trade Card application form who else you are nominating to use your card. You may find that you will get better prices using Trade Card yourself, especially on more specialist products. |
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Is it easy to Apply for Trade Card membership? |
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Applying for Trade Card membership is simple.
>> Click to request an application form
Alternatively give us a call on 0870 870 9497 to request an application form Or you can apply in person when you visit the National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon
If you apply in person you will need to bring along:
- A copy of a recent utility bill or bank statement showing your current address
- Verification of your signature with a photograph i.e. passport or drivers licence
In addition, if you would like to apply for a credit limit of up to £15,000 we will need evidence of how you are financing your project i.e. your mortgage offer.
NB: If you are a BuildStore finance customer you don’t need to show us proof of identity or funding when you apply for Trade Card membership. |
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What happens next? |
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When your Trade Card application forms are returned to BuildStore we contact our partners who in most cases set you up with a special BuildStore Trade Account.
You will receive a Welcome Pack containing your card and all the information you need about what each partner offers, your account numbers, and how to contact Trade Card partners. You can also discuss what you are looking for with your Trade Card account manager who will arrange for the partners you are particularly interested in to contact you. |
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Do I have a dedicated contact at BuildStore? |
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In order for you to get the most from your membership of Trade Card, every member has a dedicated account manager. Your account manager will introduce themselves to you at the beginning of your membership and be there to help you every step of the way through your project. If you are a BuildStore mortgage customer they will also look after your staged release payments. Call 0870 870 9497 |
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What is the Estimation service? |
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We offer Trade Card members a free Estimation service. You can send us your project plans at the start of your project and our experienced estimation team will be able to help you spec the materials you need. The project schedule you receive from us will help you plan what to purchase and when. Give your Trade Card account manager a call for further information.
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What is the Timber Frame Analysis service? |
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If you have chosen a timber frame build, comparing quotes from timber frame buildings suppliers can often be confusing. Our in-house experts can help you to understand exactly what you are getting from individual supplier’s quotes, enabling you to make the choice that is right for you. This service is free and only for Trade Card members. Give your Trade Card account manager a call for further information, the earlier you involve us the more we can help you. |
