Planning Services

Choosing a builder to construct any size extension or to carry out building alterations can be a daunting task. Here are a few key pointers that will help make the process less of a minefield in deciding upon the right builder for the job:

Choice

• Once you have a list of builders names, contact the tradesmen or builders that suit the type and size of work you want carried out. Ask for details of recent jobs they have carried out. Who for, when, where and the type of work. Contact the customers for their impression of the builder

• When comparing prices make sure that they have all included everything you want doing. Is the price based on a quotation (price fixed for the work) or an estimate (price is only a guide)?

• Do they clearly show a contact address and telephone number (not just a mobile)?
• How long have they been in business?
• Do they have full insurance cover? Even good builders can make mistakes and/or cause accidental damage
• Qualifications – many small builders firms are run by members of the Chartered Institute of Building; tradesmen have often obtained a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Card. A reputable company is proud of its reputation and should always be willing to prove it. 

Only small one or two man firms can avoid VAT registration. Remember even unregistered builders still have to pay VAT on materials, tools and equipment, vehicles and running costs. The difference in price between a VAT-registered and non VAT-registered builder is much less than you would think. If the builder is not registered, he will be passing the VAT on as a cost to you.

If someone is prepared to cheat on paying taxes, can you be sure that they will not cheat on you. If nothing is in writing what happens if you are not satisfied or something goes wrong? An invoice proves a relationship and, if a dispute follows, it can be helpful.

For anything other than a very minor job you should ask for written details of the work to be carried out and the price you will have to pay. For larger jobs a standard industry form of contract is available: Building contract for a home owner/occupier produced by the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT). Copies are available at WH Smiths or from the Construction Industry Publications, Tel 0121 722 8200.

Many builders offer insurance-backed warranties for their work. These may involve a small additional cost but do provide extra protection for you, the customer. The most well known are those provided for new houses by the NHBC and Zurich. Other organisations such as the Federation of Master Builders offer warranties through the builder for other types of work