The Approved Code Scheme

The mark of businesses you can trust.

Higher standards

Greater consumer protection for life’s biggest purchases.

Extra peace of mind

Free dispute resolution if something goes wrong.

The Approved Code Scheme

Raising standards. Protecting consumers.

The Approved Code Scheme is the UK’s only sector-wide code framework audited by Chartered Trading Standards Practitioners. Businesses that follow an Approved Code of Practice commit to higher standards of service and must offer free dispute resolution if something goes wrong.

Verify an Approved Code business

Have you seen the Approved Code Scheme logo displayed by a business? Check that they are a genuine member of the Scheme.

PLEASE NOTE : It is a criminal offence for non-Code Member businesses to falsely claim membership of the Approved Code Scheme, or display the Approved Code Logo. Please report any infringements to: [email protected]

Why you can trust the Approved
Code Scheme?

Over 45,000 Trusted Businesses

The Approved Code Scheme covers tens of thousands of businesses in some of the UK’s most important and highest-risk consumer sectors, where strong consumer protection matters most.

Over £155 Billion of Spending Protected

Since its launch, the Approved Code Scheme has supported the recovery of tens of millions of pounds for consumers and protected an estimated £155 billion of consumer spending.

Higher Standards than the Law Requires

Businesses in the Scheme must meet standards that exceed basic legal requirements, helping to drive higher standards of service and stronger consumer protection across key sectors.

Look out for the Logo

If you see a business displaying the Approved Code Logo (either the new version, or the original - see here), straight away, you'll know they are a member of a respected trade body with an Approved Code of Practice - ensuring you'll receive high standards of customer service and your consumer rights will be better protected and respected.

A change of name... and a lick of paint

In early 2024, we decided that - while we firmly believe that the Approved Code Scheme itself remains one of the most rigorous and robust consumer protection initiatives operating here in the UK - the way we presented it to the outside world had become a little confusing and 'inward-looking', and deserved a re-think.