Council services
Choosing a Builder
We are often asked by members of the public to recommend builders. Unfortunately we don't have the resources to do this.
While we're disappointed not to be able to offer this service ourselves, we think this page will provide a way of helping you to make the important decision of which builders to use.
Finding a builder
Below the links you will find some general advice on how to choose a builder. This information has been provided by the National Federation of Builders.
Improveline is a commercial organisation that provides you with local builders from an approved list that they regulate to tender for your work.
Homepro is a commercial organisation that provides you with local builders from an approved list that they regulate to tender for your work. We understand that there is a 50p per minute charge when phoning this company.
This relatively cheap standard contract protects you against many of the pitfalls experienced when employing someone to carry out improvements on your home.
Master Bond Warranty
This a partnership between the Federation of Master Builders and Local Authority Building Control. This provides you with protection whilst choosing a builder, during the construction period and for 10 years after the work's completion.
Finding the builder who's right for you
- Start with referrals
If possible, start by getting a referral from family or friends who have recently had work done. Don't stop there - follow the rest of these steps even for a builder who was referred. - Ask for help from respected trade bodies
Contact your local builders' association and ask for a list of registered members. - Obtain estimates
Ask two or three builders for estimates in writing. Ask them to confirm whether there is any planning permission required for the work. - Ask for references and check them
Ask each builder for two or three references. Contact these people and find out how happy they are with the work, and the builders conduct. If possible go and view some of the work. - Does the builder belong to a respected trade body?
Ensure the builder belongs to a respected trade organisation as it will have membership standards and requirements. Don't forget to make a call to ensure membership is current. - Agree the work and put it in writing
You should make an agreement or contract in writing with your builder. It should outline the work to be done, date of completion, security and safety, catering and lavatory arrangements, disposal of waste materials, hours of working and so on. See the link to JCT contract for home-owners above. - Insurance
Ask to see the builders' public liability insurance certificate. Also, the building work may affect your home and contents insurance - contact your own insurance company. - Deposits and Payment
Deposits are usually only payable where specific or custom-made materials are required or where the project will take a long time for completion. Otherwise, avoid paying deposits, and agree any payment schedule in writing. - Beware the VAT-free 'deal'
A VAT-free 'deal' means one of two things. Either the builder does not do more than £47,000 worth of business per annum, or alternatively he is avoiding his legal tax liabilities. You need to ask yourself - 'Is this builder large enough to be able to complete my work', 'Will he be around if any of the work requires repair?', 'How can I have a valid contract if there is no proof of payment?'
