The vast majority of our clients come to us through recommendations and word of mouth. That’s why we are so confident in producing a top tips guide when you are going through the selection process. When choosing a building partner you should consider your choice very carefully and are advised to check them out thoroughly before employing them. If you employ a reputable building contractor and judge them on price, reliability, workmanship and testimonials then the potential for problems will be greatly reduced.
How do I choose a reputable building contractor?
Get recommendations – ask friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues to see if they know of a building contractors who have experience in the same type of work you are looking to start. Check out any supplied written references and that it was your contractor who actually undertook the work. A contractor with a good reputation to preserve is more likely to be around if you have problems later. We have lots of happy customers and if you would like to visit one of our completed projects then please let us know and we’ll arrange a visit for you.
- Choose established contractors with premises you can visit and ask how long they have been in business – if things go wrong you should then be able to contact them. Ensure you have addresses and details of the contractors if you need to contact them in writing. Remember, telephone numbers are easily changed, leaving you with no way of contacting them.
- Check the contractors out – ask if there is similar completed work that they have carried out that you can view. Make sure you speak to the previous customers for their comments, were they happy with the work? Was it started and completed on time? Was the final bill in line with the estimate?
- Always obtain at least three quotations for the works, and ensure these are in writing, with a break down of works to be undertaken.
- Do not make assumptions about quality of fixtures and fixings to be supplied, that is kitchens, bath suites, doors and windows, electrical provisions and so on. If you have specific requirements, ensure the quotation includes reference to them. This also helps in obtaining comparable quotations.
- Check the quotations carefully, compare like-for-like and examine what the contractor is providing for in the price. Don’t always assume that the cheapest is the best. Good contractors who refuse to cut corners will seldom be able to compete on price with those that do.
- Agree payment terms before the work commences – be careful on upfront payments – ensure you know what you are getting for any upfront payment. It may be difficult to get monies back.
- Be clear from the outset exactly what you want the contractor to do and then stick to it – changing your mind too often will probably prove expensive.
- Once you agree a price and start date, get a written contract and make sure you understand it and agree to all of it.
We have lots of happy customers and if you would like to visit one of our completed projects then please let us know and we’ll arrange a visit for you.