Advice Please?!!

MADMUMOFFIVE

Hi, I am new to this and not sure if I am in the right area for my question...please feel free to point me in the right direction!

I am a single parent with savings from my divorse settlement that are earning some interest that have dropped by £10 per month. So I have made a serious decision to SPEND it on improving my home! I have just signed an agreement to spend £10,000 in instalments £2,000 deposit, 2 x £3,500 and final £1,000 on completion of extention. I have given the company the deposit by cheque, having withdrawn my savings (on-line) putting them in to my current account, thinking to pay the rest by cheq in instalments. Will have to draw £3,500 from my ISA which will be in cash (I guess). But finally here comes my question! Is this the right way to pay the company doing the work (conservatory people)? Because today I have read on here that it is best to pay for "everything" by credit card to get extra protection with the 'Section 75' incase the company dont deliver or go bust. Also something about a 'cashback card' - which I dont have. I do have a Virgin card, used once 2 years ago to get a balance transfer to by a car - paid off now, plus a Halifax/Amazon card to pay for Christmas - almost clear £100, plus a credit card from my bank - never used oh yes and an Asda, old style card which has just reduced my limit to £150, but which is only used for fuel and is clear at the mo. I need someone with more clout than me to 'tell' me if I should carry on with my original plan to pay by cheqs or should I be applying for a cash back card and would they even allow me to spend £10,000 on it and pay it straight off, or ... so confused, help!!!
Thank you to anyone who can see thro my rambling and give me some advise. By the way the work starts next monday!

Reaper

I'd start by asking the builders whether they accept debit or credit cards for payment and if so whether they charge extra. There's no point in getting a 1% cashback if they charge you 3% extra to use it!

If they do you need to have a cashback card already as you can't get a new one by next Monday.

Yes, using a credit card would make it easier to claim back if the company go bust. If you are concerned your card credit limit is not high enough then consider paying the cheque in first so that you have a large positive balance on the card.

evenasus

Having been married to a Trading Standards Officer for many years....

I realise that you have to pay a 'small' deposit but from then on, never pay for any work/item that has not been done/received.

Never, ever pay cash up front.
Any reputable company will accept a credit card payment.

MADMUMOFFIVE

Thanks to both for your replies, both very helpful. I feel happier now.