With an increasing number of people choosing a building contractor to supply new windows, either as part of a home extension of replacement of existing, we felt a guide to "Selecting a Builder" may be appropriate.
Please note this not the complete guide - however it should be a good help in your search.
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.
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! We have known builders who don't feel comfortable with the potential customer to submit excessive quotations, just so they do not get the work.
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.
Take a look at their previous work even if it takes extra time and inconvenience to do so. 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.
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.
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 used. 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. We 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.
The builder should carry public liability insurance plus employer's liability and builders risk where applicable. Request written verification from the builder of this with copy certificates.
The above are just a few of the things you can do. Our 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.
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Click the links below to visit some of our recommended home improvement websites
eBuilders Ltd - specialists in providing web design and marketing advice for companies supplying home improvements.
In particular we work with companies who are suppliers of conservatories, conservatory
blinds, conservatory roof systems, swimming pool enclosures, double-glazing,
diy plastics, casement & sash replacement windows and sunrooms.
Contact us today for help with your web design and promotion - Tel: 0870 850
8083 (International: +44 1603 879423) or visit our web site at www.ebuilders.co.uk.
We work with companies in the UK, (England, Scotland, Wales,
N Ireland) Eire, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, offering a wide range
of products such as Tilt and Turn, Casement and Sash Windows, materials such
as uPVC / PVCu, Wood and Aluminium.
Windowstoday.co.uk -
Providing you with information, advice and replacement window quote requests. Take advantage of the latest Summer Special Offers available.
eBuilders Ltd
1 Townsend Court, Reepham,
Norfolk, NR10 4LD
Tel: 0870 850 8083 - International: +44 1603 879423 - Fax: 01603 873112
Registered in England 3404409 Please Click Here To Contact Us
Selecting a Builder/Contractor
