PROBLEMS getting a plumber or electrician could be in the past after an entrepreneur launched his new business venture - I Need A Tradesman.

Daniel Taylor is launching his business just in time for winter, when burst water pipes, cracked windows and other emergency building jobs can cause major problems.

Mr Taylor realised he needed to do something when he had to get a tradesman he could trust, who would turn up on time, and who would return his calls.

He said that I Need A Tradesman (INAT) was the solution to a home owner's nightmare, or property developer's tight schedule.

The business has been set up with the help of Tony Luckett, a partner at regional chartered accountants and business advisors Clive Owen and Company, which provided advice on a business plan and how to fund it.

INAT's speciality is arranging a site visit and quote within 24 hours of being contacted for tradesmen including decorators, electricians, plumbers, builders, joiners, glaziers or roofers.

Mr Taylor, who believes he has spotted a much-needed niche in the market, said his business checks the credentials of everyone he uses, meaning that there is no "cowboy" approach that some jobs are renowned for.

Customers can complete a satisfaction survey after the work has been done, to help keep the standards high.

Mr Taylor said: "I Need A Tradesman aims to become the leading home property repair and improvement company.

"It will offer excellent customer service in all aspects of its business through well-trained, highly motivated, customer-focused employees. This, in turn, will lead to customer loyalty and satisfaction."

Tony Luckett, partner at Clive Owen and Co, said: "The thought-process behind Daniel's business idea is fairly simple but it is often these kinds of obvious gaps in the marketplace which result in huge success.

"Offering the customer the hassle-free option of just one phone number for a wide range of services, all delivered within a guaranteed time scale should be very attractive to those with busy lifestyles."

* To use I Need A Tradesman, call (0800) 4580590 or visit www.ineedatradesman.net