West London - quote for work - where shall I start

samantha241

Hi Gemma

I would try to get things done slowly, don't try and do everything as you will be robbed!! Especially if the builders know there is a lot of building work to be done, its easier to hide costs then. I had quotes of over 20k in my house!!

Also try to get a couple of specialists, obviously when doing the kitchen work, you will then need to get a total cost, as you will need several specialists, so the main builder will get a plasterer, electrician, plumber etc...and you will be paying a premium than getting them individually for this piece of work but then again it will be easier especially if you have a day job and builders do make money in the end.

Also get witnesses and don't pay any money up front, just get a bed to live on and please please please do read these ads on here...I've had my fair share of builders and there are honest ones but some are just too greedy and you have to let them go when they do, or you will be losing out.
Sam(also in West London)

gemma.zhang

thank you.. That's very helpful.. We plan to put a easy/camping hob, and a sofa bed to live on, and start doing those work little by little until it's all done.. As a FTB, all this sounds scaring and exciting.. Just never easy, especially we're not local...

Thanks for your advice, any tips to know whether builders are honest or not ?