Free, impartial legal guidance for businesses
The basics
Unsure of the law on trading standards or whether the rules apply to you? Find out how the law sees businesses that sell to consumers
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Concise guidance
Want answers right now? Quick Guides are arranged by what, where and how you sell to help you find the information you need
Quick Guides
Detailed information
Know what you're looking for, or want to browse a list of specific guidance arranged by category? In-depth Guides deliver the detail
In-Depth GuidesBusiness Companion provides information for businesses and individuals that need to know about trading standards and consumer protection legislation
The site delivers guidance by default for England, but if you are trading in Scotland or Wales, you should choose your location using the drop-down list at the top of the page. This is because some laws are different, or are differently enforced, in those countries
The guidance is divided up into 15 broad Quick Guides and each one contains a number of more detailed In-depth Guides.
There may be rules you are not aware of, so make sure you explore the site thoroughly.
If you don't know where to begin, or you're a new business, click Get Started above.
Latest news
Standardized packaging of tobacco – transition period to end
The transition period where old-style tobacco packaging can still be sold is due to end on 20 May. As well as the standardized-packaging requirements this means that a packet of cigarettes must now contain 20 or more cigarettes and a packet of hand-rolling tobacco must contain at least 30 grams. More >
Home improvements – your top five questions answered
Business Companion sees the bigger picture, not just from a business perspective but from a consumer's point of view too. That way, you get not just legal, but practical answers to your questions. If you run a home improvements business - from building work, kitchen and bathroom fitting to landscaping and anything in between - this Q&A is for you. More >
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