Most building horror stories could have been avoided with a few checks at the start. Whoever you hire, whether it’s us or someone else, here’s what we’d look for.
1. Get a written, itemised quote
A quote is a fixed price for a defined job. An estimate is a guess. Ask for a written quote that lists what’s included, what isn’t, and who supplies which materials. If two quotes are very different, the itemised breakdown usually shows you why.
2. Check what happens if something unexpected turns up
Old houses hide surprises, like rotten joists and dodgy wiring. A good builder will tell you upfront how they handle these: stop, show you, price it, and get your agreement before carrying on.
3. Ask about insurance
Your builder should hold public liability insurance. Ask to see the certificate and check that it’s in date.
4. Gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer
It’s the law. Ask for the engineer’s Gas Safe ID card and check it on the Gas Safe Register. The card shows which types of gas work they’re qualified to do.
5. Electrical work needs certifying
Electrical work should be tested and certified to BS 7671. For notifiable work, such as new circuits, consumer units and work in bathrooms, the electrician should be registered with a competent person scheme or the work must go through building control. Either way, you should receive the certificates.
6. Talk about building regulations and planning
Ask who is responsible for building control and planning. On larger jobs, a builder who brings these up without being asked is a good sign.
7. Agree a payment schedule
Avoid paying a large sum upfront. A deposit for materials is reasonable on bigger jobs, followed by stage payments tied to completed work, not to dates. Never pay in full before the job is finished.
8. Get a start date and a programme
A rough programme tells you the order of work, how long each stage takes, and when you’ll be without a kitchen or bathroom.
9. Look at their work and reviews
Ask to see photos of similar jobs, and read independent reviews on Google and trade directories. Look for how they dealt with problems, not just the five-star ratings.
10. Notice how they communicate
Did they turn up to the site visit on time? Did the quote arrive when promised? How a builder behaves before you hire them is usually how they’ll behave during the job.
Want a builder who ticks all ten? Request a free site visit and written quote.