Builder restricting access during renovation works

novelty-socks

I recently bought a flat and am looking to get a builder in to do a whole bunch of renovation work before moving in.

It's fairly comprehensive work: complete rewiring, stripping off all wallpaper, skimming/bonding where required (it's an old building and hard to tell what the walls will be like), patch/replace ceilings, make everything sound and redecorate. Also replacing the bathroom, moving some radiators and generally doing stuff that will be tricky later on.

One of the quotes I've had includes some notes that surprised me. If I'm reading them right, it says that the builders will need 4 hours notice in order for anyone not working on the project to enter the flat - including me (the owner!).

This felt a bit odd at first but I can imagine there might be some sort of rationale: insurance, health and safety, or just me putting my foot in the wrong place and going through a floorboard or something.

But it still feels weird. So I wanted to ask: has anyone encountered this before? Is it normal in situations where a flat is empty and being renovated? Or could the builder have some other motivation here?

societys_child

Some people find it quite exciting when their having major works carried out, and just can't help themselves.

Wondering in, sometimes with their mates in tow, getting in the way, and as you say sticking their feet through loose floor boards and falling over his equipment etc.



He's trying to work. Maybe that's his motivation.
Not sure what you think he may be getting up to?

Doozergirl

Depending on the work, we sometimes have to tell clients it isn't appropriate for them to visit.

It is dangerous and messy at points on particular days and the effort involved in cleaning up just for a visit could be counterproductive. It is a good idea to schedule visits so that people aren't stopping important work (which involves a team) to give the tour and do the talking which inevitably ensues. The talking is important, but it should be planned into a day.

The ex-owner of our current project will just turn up on the landing. It's infuriating and dangerous. She has been told, but she doesn't listen. It's not even her house!

novelty-socks

Just wanted to say thanks for the comments, super-helpful! I couldn't think about anything in particular that the builder might be trying to 'get up to', but it's good to hear the rationale behind this.

I've actually decided to go with a different builder in the end, but I'll keep these comments in mind, especially as we'll be aiming to hit some tight timescales!