main content Choosing a builder

If you are considering any work to your property and you require a builder, you should consider this choice very carefully. As this is one of the biggest investments you are likely to make, you should thoroughly check any builder out before employing their services.

Here are some of the things you should consider doing:

For large projects, consider employing a professional to advise you.

See our list Building Control - Useful Contacts

Discuss the extent of your arrangement with your professional -

does it involve the preparation of plans only or is site supervision part of the package?

If you consider your job so small you don’t require a professional, get advice from someone from the industry who you know and trust.

Always obtain quotations (at least three) and have them checked.

Don’t automatically go for the cheapest quote.

Ask questions of the builder:

where have they worked before     

how do they want to be paid: on completion or in stages

can they supply references from satisfied clients

are they happy to accept a retention clause

will they give you a final completion date

will they accept a penalty clause for failure to complete on time

will they agree to independent arbitration if you have any dispute?

Reassure yourself by checking the builder’s work, references and other aspects, such as work habits, with previous clients.

Finally, you should  wait for your "Certificate of Completion" from Building Control before completing your transactions with the builder.

Ask questions now; don’t wait until it’s too late.
Be Safe - Be Sure - Not Sorry