Choosing a Builder

A builder will initially use the plans and details prepared by your agent to give a quotation for the work. On site, the plans and details are used to ensure that the finished project is as you imagined and that it complies with the Building Regulations.

Try and get quotes from at least three different builders and try to get personal recommendations from friends and neighbours. If possible arrange to view previous work they have undertaken. Be suspicious of anyone offering a cheap deal for cash.

Use the JCT (Join Contracts Tribunal) Building Contract for homeowner /occupier to confirm your agreement with a builder. For a minimal charge the contract confirms the precise arrangements for the work to be done and sets out simply and clearly what is expected from you and your builder.

The Office of Fair Trading has seven Golden Rules, which are:

1. Before you start - decide exactly what you want done. For larger jobs, consider getting advice from an architect or surveyor.

2. Council approval - ask your Local Authority whether you need planning permission or building regulations approval.

3. Shop around, don’t be rushed - fet estimates or quotations in writing from at least two companies.

4. The company - find out as much as you can about the company. Can it cope with the job? If in doubt, get a second opinion.

5. Your contract - make sure your contract is in writing and gives full details of prices, cancellation rights, guarantees and when the work will be started and finished. Check whether any sub-contractors are to be used and who is liable if things go wrong.

6. Payment - be careful about parting with money in advance, especially if you are asked to pay large deposits. Always query any price increases and ask why they were not included in the original estimates.

7. If you have a problem - act quickly and get advice from the Council’s Trading Standards Section (or Consumer Protection) Department, Citizen’s Advice Bureau or Consumer Advice Centre.

Further information on the Competent Persons Scheme is available here.