recommendation for builders for an extension

snowmen

Going to be going ahead with an extensions soon and need a decent reliable builder.
There is a similar thread already on here but doesn't seem to get any feedback on what building firms are recommended by people who have had an extension and as importantly those building firms which should be avoided.
Any real life opinions are welcome.
Thanks.

BatCat

We had pretty good builders but had a full renovation & loft conversion. They also did HappyMummy's extension though if that helps. You can get a list of registered builders. I suggest you ha e basic plans drawn up so everything is in writing down to the last plug and lightbulb then get a quote from a selection. Note A M Rendall who we does great work but is rather pricey. I can pm with our builder's details if you wish.

snowmen

BatCat wrote: »

I can pm with our builder's details if you wish.

Yes, if you can.

shayne_2

I would always get reccomendations off friends/neighbours, my hubby's been a builder over 30 years & done lots of extensions & have built our own homes twice, but a long time ago we did'nt know any plumbers & got one out of yellow pages, he was the plumber from hell, even look at neighbours homes & see if they have extensions, then knock on door, even if you don't know them

BatCat

Done!
I agree with Shayne too. Go around your to your neighbours and see if their houses have had any recent work done. If you like the look of their extensions then knock on the door and ask them about it. They might be able to fill you in on what worked and what didn't or even share plans with you if you supply beer.

NAR

snowmen wrote: »

Going to be going ahead with an extensions soon and need a decent reliable builder.
There is a similar thread already on here but doesn't seem to get any feedback on what building firms are recommended by people who have had an extension and as importantly those building firms which should be avoided.
Any real life opinions are welcome.
Thanks.

Might be useful if you told us where you live?

polpoo

Hi Snowmen

I am an director in a small architectural practice and we have specialised in residential extensions refurbishments and renovations for the last 5 years; we have completed a lot of extensions to a lot of houses over this time and have a panel of reliable builders who we use on a regular basis. They are all good firms and and won't try to rip you off. It's important to have a well defined and specified set of drawings though.
I would have no hesitation in recommending SC Developments. They are based in downpatrick, but have worked for us in ballyclare, lisburn and Belfast. Drop me a pm if you want more details or want to discuss further. They have a web site if you goggle their name.
I hope this helps, just make sure whoever you use, you see some examples of what they have done and also speak to the clients. Make sure they have insurance and get a contract put in place (this doesnt need to be complicated - a set of drawings and a price will do). Finally, make sure you get on with them because you will see a lot of them over the course of the build.
Good Luck!

snowmen

NAR wrote: »

Might be useful if you told us where you live?

I live in newtownabbey.

NAR

snowmen wrote: »

I live in newtownabbey.

Ah sorry can't help; the guy I would reccomend only does North Down.

A.L.D.A

[FONT=&quot]Snowmen if you want I can send you details of several, who work in Newtownabbey. They are honest sorts, but with all small builders they are only as good as the weakest tradesman working with them. Ask for references and check with people they have worked with recently. Go and see what they have done. Use your eyes and really look.

Get 3-4 tenders, make sure they are all pricing for the same amount of work, make sure what is and what is not included, get an itemised breakdown and confirm any agreement in writing. Make sure all your approvals are in place before you start! [/FONT]
[FONT=&quot]It is important to have a clear agreement before you start, what type of finish, doors, ironmongery, it all adds up and is important if you want to reduce the risk of potential extras. Phone me if you want (no obligation) mobile is down at the minute, or e-mail me. It should be easy enough to find me using google.
[/FONT]

snowmen

thanks for the reply alda architechs.
yes if you could pm message me the name of some reputable builders in newtownabbey it would be a great start.
thanks for your help!