Choosing a contractor

downshifted

We’ve narrowed down the choice of contractors to build our extension, and are genuinely stuck between the two very different companies. Both have good reputations, decent local history and references. No major cost differences, first company slightly more expensive. They could both do the job.

One is a medium size company, the owner will supervise the work, be on site “near enough every day”, more contractors. Has done a lot of modern looking work, similar to what we want. Professional presentation. Good admin. Can start March/April

Other is a smaller company, solid hands on builder type who employs one other guy and they will both be full time working on site, plus contractors as necessary. Only does one job at a time. Not as slick or modern but older and very reliable. Has done similar work. Has taken time to engage with us, and feels trustworthy, salt of the earth type. Can start April/May

I’m going to phone a couple of customers of each, and, despite Covid maybe have one further meeting with the guys, just to check gut feelings.  Anything else I should think of? 

NeverTooLate

What does your gut tell you? You're going to be spending a lot of time with these people, you need to feel comfortable with them and be able to communicate exactly what you want.

Mickey666

Sounds like you've done all the right things and that both are good candidates for this work.  I'd say you're right to talk to a few previous customers, though bear in mind they're bound to be the happy ones (assuming the builders chose them as references).

The sort of things I'd be looking for is a contractor that will give the job full attention until completion.  It's difficult for builders to perfectly judge timescales and can sometimes find themselves overstretched, leading to times when they can't spare anyone to work on your job.  A smaller firm should be more focused on your one job but on the other hand a larger firm might have more flexibility to move labour around exactly as and when needed.

 

If the references can't help with the decision, then all other things being more or less equal, I'd go with the people you like the most - you'll be dealing with then a lot!