Choosing a builder
How to Select the Right Builder for Your Project
The choice of the right builder is perhaps one of the most critical steps in a quest to either put up a new structure or remodel an existing one. Here at Yoop Architects, we understand that investing in a new project entails working with people who appreciate, respect and protect the vision that the client has and translates that vision into reality. You need to keep in mind the following ten suggestions when choosing a contractor:
You have the designs in place. Now you need to find the right builder to turn your plans into reality. Here’s our Top Tips for choosing a builder:
1. Experience and Expertise
Always seek to ensure that the builder you hire has experience in all the projects that you have previously looked at. No matter whether bolt-on expansion, attic build outs, or even a new ground up construction, it is always best to counteract the challenges at the onset. The builder will make the progress smooth.
How low have they been trading? What experience do they have with the type of work that you need doing?
Meeting some builders super-early in the process is key to getting the result that you want at the end.
2. Portfolio and References
Check out past work to determine the quality of work a builder performs and the level of detail involved in it. At Yoop Architects, we urge our clients to peruse the builders’ past work for such evaluation and also request for their work references and testimonials for the assessment of their dependability, workmanship and business conduct.
3.Communication and Transparency
An exemplary builder fosters a healthy relationship with the homeowner and provides updates intermittently. Make a point of selecting a builder who is frank regarding any potential uncertainties, the schedule, and how much everything will cost. This way, you will still be part of the project and assured about the process.
4. Licensing and Insurance
Confirm that your builder has the relevant licenses and insurance cover and abides by the building authority regulations. This ensures you do not incur any blame and that the work done is safe and of good quality. Do some background research – If the builder claims to be a member of a trade association, contact the trade association and check that this is true. Ask for references and contact the people that provided them to check that they are accurate.
5. Teamwork with Your Architect
Building is only one part of the job there is also an architect. Yoop architects believe that it is very important to build the bond between the clients and the architects as well as the builders so that every step from the designing to the finishing of the project is done without any confusion. Is the builder registered with a competent person scheme?
Inside this easy to read free guide, discover how to renovate your home.
6. Is the builder insured?
They should have cover to protect themselves against property damage and personal and public liability to protect you and the general public in the event of an accident or injury. For expert advise on this and any other insurance exposures, please contact Gary Philip at GPS Insurance Brokers on 020 8207 7385. GPS Insurance
7. When asking for quotations/discussing job details get as much detail as possible in writing
8. Can the builder offer a guarantee?
9. Does the builder ask for payment upfront or a cash deposit? This shouldn’t be needed unless you request specialist building materials or the job is likely to take a long time to complete
10. Does the builder provide a formal, detailed contract? Your contract should outline what work is to be done, start/completion dates, security, safety, the cost of the work and materials, payment plans, catering and lavatory arrangements, hours of work, cleaning up and disposal of waste materials
After decades in the construction industry, Yoop Architects have worked with some great builders and can help you find someone who you can trust with your home. Go ahead and book a free call below to find out how Yoop can help you create your dream extension.
By choosing the right builder, you can ensure that your project runs smoothly, on time, and to the highest standard. At Yoop Architects, we work closely with trusted contractors to deliver the exceptional results our clients expect.
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