How do you choose and reference your builder?

If you're planning on extending your home, it's crucial you choose the right builder for the job. A good builder will oversee all aspects of the project, ensuring it's delivered on time, within budget and to a professional standard. But how do you choose a builder, and how do you correctly reference them? Here's Extension Pro Swindon’s guide to choosing and referencing a builder for a home extension project.

1. Get Multiple Quotes 

The first step is to get a minimum of 3 quotes from different builders. This way, you can compare prices and services and choose the one that best fits your needs. During the quoting process, make sure you ask for a detailed breakdown of costs and check if there are any hidden fees. Having a written specification of all works you require id always best as it helps you compare all tender returns on a like-for-like basis.

2. Check the Builder's Reputation 

It's important to do your research and check the builder's reputation before hiring them. Look for online reviews and ratings from previous clients, and ask the builder for references that you can speak to directly. A good builder will be happy to provide references and showcase their previous work. Actually follow up on these contacts to ensure they are real and that they’d happily recommend the builder.

3. Look for Experience in Home Extensions 

When choosing a builder, it’s important to look for someone who has experience specifically in home extensions. This means they have the knowledge and skills required to deliver a high-quality extension and that they understand the complexities involved in the process. Check how long the company has been operating and how many home extension projects they have completed in the past.

4. Check Certifications or Memberships

There is no licensing requirements for builder operating in the UK, unlike other countries. This is a good principle as it ensures the particular builder has the skills and knowledge to complete the job safely and to a professional standard. In the absence of such licenses, it is good practice to choose a contractor that is registered with a well known trade bodies such as the Federation of Master Builders, Considerate Constructors or Construction Online.

5. Check for Insurance 

Another important factor to consider is the builder's insurance. They must have public liability, employers liability and builders all risk insurance to cover any damage or accidents that may occur during the project. Make sure the insurance policy covers the full value of the home extension project and are valid throughout the programme.

6. Review Their Communication Skills 

Communication is a crucial aspect of any home extension project. You want to hire a builder who will keep you updated on the progress of the project, answer any questions you may have and keep you informed of any changes that may arise. During the quoting process, take note of how quickly the builder responds to your queries and how they communicate with you.

7. Review Their Contracts 

Before signing any contract, make sure you carefully review it and understand all the terms and conditions. A good contract should cover all aspects of the project, including costs, timelines, warranties and dispute resolution processes. It's important to have a contract in place to protect both parties and ensure the project runs smoothly.

8. Visit Completed Projects 

If possible, ask to visit completed projects similar to yours. This will give you a good idea of the builder's quality of workmanship and attention to detail. Ask the builder for photos or videos of previous projects if it’s not an option to visit previous sites.

9. Planning & Building Regulations 

Another factor to consider is whether the builder adheres by local council regulations. Planning permissions should be attained and the builder should strictly adhere to the approved plans. They should also be up-to-date with any legal and building regulation changes that affect building in the UK.

10. Choose Based on Value Not Just Cost 

When choosing a builder, it's easy to be swayed by the lowest price. However, it's important to choose based on value and not just cost. A more expensive builder may offer better quality materials and take a more comprehensive approach to the build, resulting in a better outcome for you in the long run.

In conclusion, careful vetting of your builder is a very important step in your home extension process. It is important to remember that a rushed decision may cost you more in the long run. Therefore finding the right builder who is reputable, experienced and insured whilst also adhering to legal and regulation aspects of a build, is key to ensuring a successful outcome.

Can We Help You?

If you’re looking to find a reputable and experienced extension builder in and around Swindon, Wiltshire then Extension Pro Limited can help! We provide a complete design and build service specifically for home extensions, managing the entire process on your behalf, completing all the important steps for you in one easy, done for you, turnkey process! From the very first sketch design, visualisations, planning permission, structural design, project management, right through to construction…we have you covered!

If you’re looking to extend your property, then please get in touch with the Extension Pro team. We work with everyday homeowners in Swindon, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire to elevate their properties to the next level!