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Selecting a Builder
Below is a short general guide on
selecting a builder. It is not the complete guide
- but it should be a fair help in your search.
The points being made here are equally important in selecting a
builder for any project.
Your relationship with the contractor or builder
for your conservatory project or indeed any
building project - both large and small is
critical. You must feel comfortable with them.
Try and imagine what it would be like dealing
with this person if there where some
difficulties. Few large building projects proceed
without at least a few challenges! Will this
individual be somebody you feel you could trust
around your home - even if you are not around?
Does he or she appear fair and trustworthy. Do
not be bullied - but likewise don't bully the
builder! I have known builders who don't feel
comfortable with the potential customer to submit
excessive quotations, as they do not in effect
want the work!
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It is especially important to
remember that once work is started it will be
difficult to go back on your decision without
considerable inconvenience. So take your time and
select well. |
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Also when considering a builder/contractor take a
look at their previous work even if it takes
extra time and inconvenience to do so. Personally
I always think it’s nice to go by personal
recommendation. Ask about the builder's personnel
- how did they behave around the home. Did they
show respect and consideration for others
including the neighbours? Did they clean up at
the end of each day? ASK ALL THESE QUESTIONS.
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Do remember that not many building jobs go
absolutely perfectly. Don't therefore expect
perfect referrals all the time. Do however ask if
the referee would use the contractor again. This
should tell you everything you need to know. |
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Is the proposed builder financially responsible?
A builder or contractor that does not pay his
subcontractors and suppliers on time can be a
serious problem. If possible ask around local
trades and businesses that the builder use. If
your project is particularly large (over
£10,000) it is not unreasonable to ask the
builder for a financial reference. Perhaps your
bank could ask the builder's bank for a
reference. I would suggest you only do this when
you have more or less decided to employ the
builder, as your bank will usually make a small
charge for this. |
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The builder for public liability should carry
insurance plus employer’s liability and
builders risk where applicable. Request written
verification from the builder of this with copy
certificates. |
The above is just a few of the things you can do.
However my Top Tip remains – Ask for
recommendations amongst friends, neighbours and
work colleagues. Also if you spot a builder or
conservatory supplier working locally stop and
introduce yourself. You will have an instant
impression of their level of professionalism etc.
GOOD LUCK!
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