subject: Choosing A Builder: 6 Golden Rules [print this page] Choosing a Builder: 6 Golden Rules Choosing a Builder: 6 Golden Rules
Now that youve decided to go ahead and have that building work done on your home, how do you choose the builder who is going to give you what you need at the right price? Here are some golden rules to guide you through the process:
1.Dont make the price the sole criteria for choice
Always obtain at least three quotations but dont base your decision solely on cost. Ask for a breakdown of the quotation so you know what the separate labour and materials costs are going to be, also ask for an estimate of how many days the build is expected to take. You are now in a better position to compare the quotes but do make sure you are comparing like with like. There are many ways to skin a cat.
2.Get a builder with the right experience
Has your builder done this kind of work before? Most experienced builders will have photographic evidence of their work and be happy to show you. They will also be able to provide testimonials from satisfied customers. You may even be able to go and view their work to satisfy yourself of their competence. If they have lots of experience building foundations, and you need your gable end rebuilt, it will be better to find someone who can demonstrate knowledge and experience in that area.
3.Dont compromise on reliability to save money
Coping with a building project in your home is never easy, even if you can move out. You will want to be sure that the builder you choose is not going to disappear in the middle of your build and leave you in a mess. Try if you can to speak to a former client who will be able to give you an idea of the reliability and professionalism of your builder. Ensure you ask the builder for the number of days effort the project will take and the duration of the project; 10 days effort does not necessarily mean 2 weeks work.
4.Ensure health & safety is a priority
Just because you are having building work done does not mean your home should turn into an unsafe environment. Your builder should be fully aware of what measures he will need to take to ensure that you and your family remain safe during the works. Ask him what measure he will take to ensure the site remains safe while they are working.
5.Find out whos doing the work before you commit
Just because the building company has sent their best man to assess the project and provide the price, it doesnt mean that person will actually doing the work. Ensure you find out whos doing the work before you commit to the project and make sure they have the same experience and knowledge as the person who priced the project.
6.Dont pay 100% of the money up front
Last but not least, if you ignore all of the other rules weve given you, do not, under any circumstances, pay your builder 100% of the money up front. Any builder worth their salt wont ask for that, and any customer who wants a good job done wont do it. Be prepared to pay some money up front as a commitment to the project and for materials, but not the whole amount, ever!
For more details about builders Stoke Visit on: http://www.redbrickbrickwork.co.uk
