Extension cost

clutterbug_2

Thanks for that Brenster.

We are planning on doing as much as we can - clearing the site of a wall and paving slabs, moving supplies from where they will have to be dropped at kerb side to the back of the house, barrowing in cement when it is delivered, tiling, etc.

Things like footings seem a bit beyond us to be honest. Its something I'm worried that if we get wrong it will cost a bit to fix and time to do it.

Plus, all the quotes we've had are regardless if we help out with things or not.

Had another builder round tonight that seemed to make more of things than was necessary. That, with the fact that he didn't seem to think it was a 'woman's' thing to be coordinating building work, and more for my husband (who hasn't been too involved as he works full time) put me off him straight away.

Brenster

My only advise would be who ever you go with, set out clearly what you will be doing, what you will be providing. And ask them to quote for the rest. Ask them to set out their price elementally (foundations, slab, external walls, windows, doors, Internal finishes, roofs, electrics, heating and plumbing, external works, drainage, prelinminaries, profit) and then only pay them against this agreed schedule periodically once the work has been completed. I.e you should always be paying for work already undertaken.. A reputable builder will never ask for money upfront.

Also I would recommend drawing up a simple legal agreement, which bnoth you and the builder will sign upto. This will protect both parties in the event of a disagreement.

clutterbug_2

Hi all, as promised, I'm back to keep you up to date.

Our local builder got back to us with a quote for all labour, building materials (except for the reclaimed bricks, about 1000 of them, and the roof timbers and trusses), and skip for £9,300. We are yet t confirm with him if it needs VAT adding, but even if it does then that's a good price we feel, so are going ahead with him. At least it's someone we trust and know well.

Thanks Brenster, we'll get a payment terms and contract set up.

Brenster

Good Luck, remember a contract can be a simple letter ! It doesnt necessarilly mean you need a solicitor to draw it up !

Just make sure it covers the main issues;
Time
Quality
Cost

All the best.

clutterbug_2

Thank you all for your help, both of you! No doubt I'll be on with different questions, but I will also be keeping a blog with photos - mainly for family abroad but will share here, hopefully someone will find it useful!

jkpd

all sounds good,looking forward to some pictures,hope it all go's smoothly.