The Northern Ireland Oil Federation (NIOF) launched its customer charter this week, a first for an oil trade association in the UK and Ireland.

David Blevings, executive director of the Federation said: “The charter is a welcome development and will provide consumers with information on what level of service they can expect from a NIOF distributor member.”

The charter includes information on payment options, best value, energy efficiency and advice for vulnerable customers. Blevings said it will also help customers get the most from a distributors’ service, and includes advice on how to make a complaint if they are dissatisfied or have ideas for improvement.

The charter is supported by over 60 local home heat oil distributors who are responsible for the sale of home heating oil volume in Northern Ireland.