It’s one thing to locate an architect, but it’s an entirely different thing to choose the best builder for you and your specific task. It is important to find builders who are licensed and who have the proper insurances and knowledge of the kind of work you require and who will complete your project at the appropriate price, and with whom you have confidence in and be comfortable with.
Our guide walks you through all you must learn about finding builders near me. It also explains how to find excellent quotes, how to negotiate the contract you sign and what constitutes fair and reasonable terms for payment.
“Don’t be rushed into choosing who will do the job for you. Consider every option and most importantly , you should be at ease, content and confident about the person you choose to complete the task for you.”
How can you tell the reliability of a builder?
An excellent sign of a reputable builder is that they will be willing to show you samples of their previous work . They can also give testimonials from their previous clients. Request to see their finished work and talk to their customers. If they don’t, you must ask what is the reason. When you go to previous projects, ask customers how they discovered the builders:
They communicated clearly, often and respectfully?
Was their punctuality good?
Did they keep their promises?
Did they spot the unforeseen issues and delays openly and promptly?
Did they complete the project in time and within the budget?
Did they reduce disturbance and noise?
Did they manage other trades efficiently in the event that they were required?
Did they manage to keep the site clean?
Naturally, you must select a builder who has an extensive knowledge of the project they are expected to do A renovation of your office is different than a bathroom remodeling or a new kitchen. A good builder should have an accurate, current understanding of the latest construction guidelines.
Qualifications of builders What should I look for?
There is no formal qualifications that builders must have to be able to claim themselves a builder. This is the reason we suggest choosing an established builder from a reliable source like the FMB to reduce the danger of scammers.
Certain builders are capable of showing you the CSCS certificate (issued from the Construction Skills Certification Scheme) to prove that they have the proper knowledge and skills to do on the job. There are also certifications like the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in the field of construction that could demonstrate a builder’s understanding of their field.
Certain trades, such as plumbers and electricians require specific qualifications. For instance, if you’re using plumbing services to install an appliance that uses gas like a cooker in your new kitchen be sure that they’re gas Safe registered. If you are having electrical work done, you must choose a contractor that is registered with an Competent Person Scheme, such as NICEIC or ELECSA.
You can also determine whether the builder is a part of a respected trade association like the FMB. Always request confirmation of membership. For complete peace of mind, call an association’s representative directly to verify.
The reason why Master Builders provide peace of mind
FMB Master Builders adhere to the highest standards, which is the reason they’re proud to be a part of the largest Construction industry association. When becoming members, they are verified and independently checked to ensure that they are meeting the standards by an Master Builder company. We ensure that members are in compliance with our quality and safety requirements through:
Conducting an independent review of the work of the builders in connection with the application for membership.
Proactively checking their credit history, trading history Public liability and employers’ liability insurance.
We are enforcing Our Code of Conduct which includes writing contracts and quotes in compliance with the health and safety laws while also being transparent, making sure assurances, warranties, and certificates are handed over to customers and leaving your house clean and tidy and with trash properly removed.
In addition, as the ultimate back-up, our members as well as their clients are able to access our approved by the government for dispute resolution service. It is completely free and provides assistance to get the project to a better place should it be required.
Sheffield Builders
020 8004 0209
sheffield-builders.com