If you have decided that you want to add an extension to your home, the next step is to find the right people to help you to turn it into a reality. Choosing the right builders is important, and with so many stories about nightmare builders around, you are right to want to do all you can to make sure that you end up with a good builder. Here are some of the things that you can do to help you be confident in your choice of builder…
Search online – The internet is a great way to find things that you want, and this includes building companies! Search in your area, like building companies Bristol for example, and you will find a list of builders like this www.mogfordprescott.co.uk/builders-bristol/
You can take a look at their websites and also their reviews on Google to give you a good idea of the kind of work that they do – this is a great way to narrow it down to a shortlist.
Speak to others – If you know anyone else who has recently had an extension built, ask them if they can recommend anyone to you. This is a fantastic way of getting a building company that you can trust, and you will be able to see their work in person.
Ask your Architect – An architect will create the plans for your extension, and they can also help and advise on things like planning permission and companies that they know to be good quality and reliable.
Qualities that mark out a good builder
A good builder is experienced, knows the building regulations well and carries proper insurance. They aim to get the work right first time, set a realistic budget for the project and honour the contract once it is signed. They should also know how to deal safely with problems that arise on site, without putting anyone at risk.
Ask friends, neighbours and colleagues who they have used, as personal recommendations are often the most reliable. Online, many builders show photographs of past projects and their certifications, which gives a sense of their experience and reputation locally.
Once you have a shortlist, meet each builder in person. Talk through the contract, how you will communicate during the project and the timeline, so you are both clear on what will be done and when.