How do you know if you have a good building contractor?

Once your building plans are ready it’s time to find a builder. You are about to make a large investment so you need to consider who will do the work very carefully.

Below are 6 pointers that might help you choose a good builder.

• Personal recommendation is a great starting point, this gives you the chance to view their work & ask questions to see if your friend or family member were satisfied with their work, before you commit.
• Always ask for references, if they are confident in their work they will be happy to introduce you to their customers , you will find that a happy customer is only too willing to speak with you and tell you how pleased they are with the work completed.
• Ask lots of questions when the builders visit your home. A good builder will be happy to spend time with you and answer all of your questions. A good builder should give you useful ideas.
• Don’t automatically choose the cheapest quote; the lowest price is not always the best price. And if one quote comes in a lot cheaper than the rest then you might want to ask yourself why. This could be the sign of a cowboy builder.
• Take your time, don’t rush into choosing your builder and get it right. The cowboy builders really are out there and can come across as really nice people. An incomplete extension and no money left, is an all too common situation and not a pleasant one.
• Never make the final payment until Building Control has issued a final certificate and not until you are completely satisfied that all the work done has been done correctly. If you’re not sure it’s worth employing a surveyor. Remember its hard work getting your money back.

M & A Developments offer a complete range of services to private clients and the construction trade.

Contact us for free friendly advice and consultation at any time, evening and weekends.

E: info@mandadevelopments.com