Choosing the right Builder

Choosing the right builder could save you thousands of pounds...

It is not easy to find a competent and trustworthy builder, especially if you have no experience or knowledge of the Building trade.

The following list details the questions you should ask to help you decide:

• Ask family or friends if they know of anyone who has provided a good service.
• Check with a respected trade body for details of reputable builders such as the National Federation of Builders.
• If the builder claims to be a member of a professional body (i.e. Corgi, Guild of Master Craftsmen) contact them to check.
• Ask each builder if he has completed any work locally and check the property/work.
• You won't have a valid contract if there is no proof of payment; get a receipt for deposits and all payments. 'VAT-free' deals often mean 'no paperwork' deals.
• Put details of the job down in writing. We suggest you use the UK Builders Academy Code of Conduct. This outlines what work is to be done, start and completion dates, costs, and advises on the type of builder etc.
• Don't be hurried into making a fast decision, seek advice. If the builder isn't prepared to wait for a decision then go elsewhere. Be particularly aware to door canvassers.
• Avoid dealing in cash, a cheque is more than adequate and provides evidence and tracking should anything go wrong.
• Ensure the builder is insured against claims covering property damage all builders should have personal liability insurance in the case of accident or injury.

About 100,000 complaints are lodged against rogue builders in the UK every year.

For anyone having building work done, the main concerns are that the builder does a good job, completes the work on time and doesn't overcharge.

The Crime Squad investigation into a building company based in Leeds found that the company told its employees to make a minimum charge of £3,600 regardless of the the size of the job, and it insisted that customers always paid in advance.

Trading standards officers are calling for a regulatory body that gives them the power to put rogue builders out of business. Mr Howells said he hoped he could grant them those powers very soon.

In July, the government promised to tackle the problem of rogue builders as part of its clampdown on what it describes as "rip-off Britain". Among other things, it's to pilot a national approved list of builders and an insurance backed warranty against faults.