Choosing The Right Builder
Summary: Choosing the right builder doesn’t have to be difficult. Trust should be established from the start, with a proven portfolio of work, prompt replies, good communication, a transparent pricing model, and finally a construction process that takes into account a schedule of work, health and safety considerations, and your personal circumstances. Read on for a more detailed breakdown on choosing the right builder.
Choosing The Right Builder
We’re constantly faced with stories like this one of unreliable builders that don’t deliver, and turn out to be untrustworthy. It’s no wonder that choosing the right builder can be a tough decision and one you absolutely want to get right.
Here are the 5 main things to consider when choosing a builder
1. Initial Communication
2. Previous Projects
3. Detailed Estimates / Proposals
4. Prompt Follow Up
5. A Clear Construction Process
Initial Communication
The mark of a quality builder starts well before the shovel hits the ground. When sending your initial enquiry did the builder follow up within 24 hours? Even if it’s to say they are fully booked. If you left your phone number, did they ring? A good builder will call calls you promptly, schedules a time to review your project and drawings in person, and follows up when they say they will. If the communication is poor before you choose your builder, what will it be like once they start construction?
Previous Projects
Unlike social media experts, builders may not have a curated set of images to show off their work. What a good builder will have, however, is testimonials and past clients willing to show you around. If you are considering a large extension or new build, projects Barthorp Building typically undertakes for example, we wouldn’t expect you to spend over £150,000 without showing you our previous work. References are essential when selecting a builder - a tour of a previous project is even better!
Detailed Estimates or Proposals
This is a big one. All too often a builder will provide a one page estimate and leave it at that, but that’s not good enough. Instead, you should be shown a proposal that’s broken down by phase of build, materials and labour, and includes any provisional sums. The estimate should have a scope of work and include any agreed exclusions. This will ensure you’re both aligned and there’s no nasty surprises at the end.
Prompt Follow Up
Now this doesn’t mean hounding you to sign a contract. A prompt follow up means you and your prospective builder coming together to review the detailed proposal, and answer any questions you have around the scope of work. At this stage you’ll be walked through the methodology, materials, and schedule, as well as next steps should you wish to go ahead.
A Clear Construction Process
A quality builder plans the entire project before they start and walks you through it. They’ll tell you what to expect, and who will be involved at each stage. This often includes a “schedule of works” or “Gantt Chart” with dates for each phase of the build. They will also outline any health and safety considerations, and explain how they will keep everyone safe if you are living in the property during construction. Lastly, a good builder has set check-ins with you every few weeks to keep you in the loop on what’s going on. Do not compromise for anything else less.
Conclusion
Keep the above 5 points in mind, and choosing the right builder doesn’t have to be difficult. Have a criteria and hold firm on it. Communication, clarity and transparency are key.
Barthorp Building are quality builders based in Cheltenham servicing Gloucestershire and parts of Oxfordshire and Worcestershire. We pride ourselves on delivering projects on time and to a high standard within the set budget. Reach out to us today to discuss your project.
