Avoiding cowboy builders
If you are considering extending or altering your home you
will probably require a builder. Selecting that
builder, agreeing what you want, the cost, when and how the work is
to be undertaken are vital to a successful project. This is likely
to be one of the biggest investments you are likely to make; you
should have confidence in your builder and take great care in his
selection.
For larger projects it may be advisable to employ the services
of a professional, such as an Architect or Surveyor. Consider the
following points:
- Try to get personal recommendations from friends or
neighbours.
- Ask for references from recent clients, ask to see the
work.
- Decide exactly what you want prior to asking for a
quote.
- Have detailed plans prepared showing your exact
requirements.
- Get a quotation from more than one builder.
- Take your time; don’t be hurried into making a decision.
- Use the
JCT building contract for home owners
The Building Contract confirms the precise details for your
project and sets out simply and clearly what is expected from you
and your builder, issues such as:
- Work to be done
- Details regarding formalities such as: Planning Permission,
Building
- Regulation approval and the Party Wall Act.
- The use of facilities / services on the premises, electricity,
water, toilet.
- Price
- Payment
- Working period
- Product guarantees
- Insurance
- Working hours
- Security
- Disputes
When the works are completed to the satisfaction of your
building control surveyor you will be sent a 'completion
certificate.' We recommend that you do not make the final payment
to your builder until you have the certificate, but try to agree
this with your builder at the outset in your homeowners building
contract. We are not able to recommend builders to you. Our
service is required to be completely impartial in our dealings with
any builder or client.