Postby asknicky » Mon Jan 18, 2016 7:38 am
Hi NL,
Here is a list of questions for builders that i put together recently for a friend:
1. Can they provide references and arrange for you to see some previous work in person? Happy customers are likely to be fine about allowing someone to come through with the builder for ten minutes to look around.
2. Do they have insurance to cover public liability and contract works (as a minimum)? Can they give you a copy of this insurance?
3. Is the quote an estimate or fixed price? If it is just an estimate the final price can be a lot higher, so ask for the final quote to be fixed price. Also ask if the quote is labour only or labour and some building materials. Ask the builder itemise all parts of the job to make it easier to compare quotes. If the budget is tight, are there some items they can drop from the quote? Ensure you put down in great detail everything that needs to be included and the level of finishing no matter how small and trivial. If extra work needs to be done it’s a good idea to negotiate a day rate for that upfront.
4. Does the quote include rubbish clearance and skip bins? This can run into thousands of pounds on an extension where there is demolition and foundations are dug up, so you don’t want this to be a grey area.
5. Does the quote include Value Added Tax (VAT)? Unless your project is a new build you will need to pay this, but many suppliers quote ex VAT.
6. What are the timing of payments and method of payments? Be wary of builders asking for large amounts upfront. This is a warning sign about the financial stability of the builder/tradesman. Payments are usually in stages, either project milestones or time-based intervals such as monthly payments. Ensure your builder provides a payment receipt for every payment you make.
7. Can they provide a detailed timescale of works? Reviews at milestones will help you track your build and plan the deliveries of fixtures and fittings if this is your responsibility.
8. Will your builder be purchasing fixtures and fittings and do they get trade discounts with their suppliers?
9. Who will be supervising the workmen and trades? If your builder is using subcontractors, they will not be covered by your main builder’s insurance and will need to have their own insurance. It’s important to understand the relationship that your builder has with the people working on your project.
10. What days will they be working and what are the start and finish times? You can check with your local council about what hours noisy building works are allowed to take place.
11. How will the contractor protect the rest of the house to prevent damage and dust?
12. Will the builders need utilities to be connected and amenities such as a toilet?
