Page last updated at 14:19 GMT, Thursday, November 4 2010
Choosing A Builder
If you are considering 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 out any builders before employing their
service.
The following is a recommended "Things to Do"
list:
For large projects consider employing a professional to
advise. Please refer to:
Discuss the extent of your arrangement with your professional e.g.
is it only plans preparation or is site supervision also part of
the package.
If you consider your job too small to require a professional,
obtain advice from someone in the industry you know and
trust.
Always obtain at least three quotations and have them checked and
don't automatically go for the cheapest quote.
Ask the builder the following questions:
- where have you worked before
- are they happy for you to see their work
- what is their expertise in the particular project you intend to
carry out
- how do they want to be paid, on completion or in stages
- can references from satisfied clients be supplied
- are they happy to accept a retention clause
- will they give a final completion date
- will they accept a penalty clause on failure to complete in
time
- in the event of a dispute will they agree to independent
arbitration
Finally, reassure yourself by checking out the builder's
previous work, references and other aspects, like work habits, with
previous clients and remember to ask questions before engaging the
builder rather than after.
Other useful information may be obtained by telephoning Trading
Standards on Tel: 08454 040506 or from the
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