Pay weekly carpets v Freedom to shop around

When budgets are tight and your home needs a new carpet, sometimes people feel they are faced with a choice between the pay weekly carpet companies or sticking with a threadbare carpet that clearly needs replacing.

At PCCU we have helped people in the Burnley and Pendle communities to purchase new carpets, laminate, vinyl and lino for many years. When deciding how to finance a new carpet, the pay weekly companies that populate social media platforms such as Facebook appear to be a good option. No credit check or interest, it sounds too good to be true….?

When neighbours from our community apply for a home improvement loan at PCCU to finance new carpets we are often told it has given them the freedom to shop around and find the best deal. The different styles, quality of carpet and ability to do a deal with local suppliers has always been a bonus with the money to pay upfront.

Many of the pay weekly carpet companies proudly trumpet that it only cost £10 per week. There is normal a deposit of around £40-50, plus a fitters charge of £50-£70. In some cases we have spoken to account holders who have decided that putting aside the £100 deposit and fitter fee, whilst saving £10 per week at Credit Union, took no time at all to purchase a brilliant quality carpet from a local supplier.

There are times when you need a new carpet immediately. Many find when moving into social housing that the properties come unfurnished or when a baby arrives in a family and starts to crawl. PCCU have always been on hand to help, and encourage people to get in contact with a friendly member of staff. As a not-for-profit company you will not be charged a fee to discuss your options, nor an application fee or deposit before you decide what to do. Credit Unions only operate to benefit the local community.

Some people will be happy with the pay weekly carpet companies, but just like the rent-to-own companies such as BrightHouse you should always sit back, read the terms and conditions, and consider your options before committing.

Is the carpet good quality, is the sample the carpet I will actually get, what would it cost for a similar carpet from a local supplier?

Be aware that you may not own the carpet until the balance is paid, which means late or non-payment could incur interest adding to the final balance or the flooring being removed from your property.

Everyone wants to feel proud of their household, we know that carpets can set the tone for your house; new flooring can really change the mood of the people who live in a home. If you are in situation where the flooring needs replacing and your options to finance are limited then contact PCCU today.

It is easy to apply for a loan, once you’ve provided us with the information we need we’ll try to make a decision as quickly as possible. We aim to deal with all applications within two days and, wherever possible, by the very next day. As soon as we’ve decided, the money will be transferred into your account, which puts you in the promising position of being able to start shopping for carpets straight away.