Hints and Tips for getting the best from your builder...

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Tips for obtaining the best from your builder:

Never pay the full amount up front. Stage payments to match the work and materials used.

Trust your architect to advise on a payment scheme. They are independent and experienced.

Don’t always accept the cheapest price. Go for a professionally prepared quote that includes all relevant materials and factors.

Fix a schedule of works so you know when the work is to begin, and how long it will take to complete. This might just be useful if things go bad.

Always ask for, and check references. If possible, see recent work. A strange voice on a phone number your builder gives you could be their mum. Professional builders will be pleased to provide references, and will be proud of their work.

Never accept a discount for cash. Any builder who offers to forget the VAT for cash is going to cut corners wherever possible, and the job will suffer. After all, you want your builder to still be there in 12 months time and not to fly by night?

Make sure you know exactly who you are dealing with. You need a name, and address, and a real phone number. Check the ads for mobile numbers only, or 0700 numbers that could go anywhere. Pay by credit card where possible so that the credit card company shares the liability if things go wrong, and by cheque by post. If your builder needs cash there must be a reason.

Use builders that are members of trade associations, and check with those trade associations claims of membership are genuine.

Personal recommendation is king. If you are looking through small adds or the Internet remember that a glossy ad or a slick web site is all too easy to hide behind.

No professional builder will ever be short of work so if you are approached by a builder with time on their hands, proceed with caution.

Anyone claiming to be a builder who points out loose slates or a problem with your chimney, gutters or gate will only be after your money. Tell them you have a relative on the way who will deal with it. Tell them the Police are on the way. Tell them anything but don't let them start work, and if they start anyway call the Police.

Ask for a written guarantee on company stationary.

Ask your builder about all the hidden extras, and listen out for fudged vague answers that skirt the issues. A professional will have an answer to all these questions.

Who will clear up the mess?

Who pays for the skip?

Will I need a permits?

Will I need planning permission?

If you are doing gas work, are you corgi registered?

If you are doing electrical work, are you qualified?

If the work is for tenants, will it be certified?

Will the work disturb the neighbours?

What happens if you find asbestos?

Are you insured?

Who is going to turn up and when?

How much of the work are you going to sub contract?

How much of the work can I do myself to save on cost?

What do I need to provide and by when?

Can I leave you to it or will you disappear when I go out?

What items are special order that might cause delays?

If we fall out, who will arbitrate in the event of a dispute?

Do you really want six sugars in your tea?