Looking for a builder: an old house in Warwickshire

Emily_Joy

Hello all, as per thread title, I am looking for a builder to do some relatively minor work on an old farmhouse (built in early 1800) in Leamington Spa area in Warwickshire. The house has been well looked after and has a lot of original features preserve so I am after someone who respects old houses. I was thinking about @Doozergirl at first, but it appears they have not stopped by the forum for a year.

gwynlas

Whilst they might not still be visiting the forum given their personal project completed are there enough hints in their thread to identify their company or send a direct message?

Emily_Joy

Alas, I have no contacts apart from this forum :(

Mutton_Geoff

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6687651/looking-for-a-builder-an-old-house-in-warwickshire

Is it listed? Having worked on old houses, I can say from experience, even "relatively minor" jobs can turn out big especially if you need to get listed building consent.

I would drive around the local area looking for similar projects and ask the householder if they'd recommend their builder. A good builder might be booking a year or two ahead. Second to check the planning portal and see which architects are submitting work on similar aged buildings, then call them for builder recommendations.

gwynlas

There is a period house forum on line and also an owners group on F book that might be able to advise

stuart45

I know quite a few builders who work on older houses, but don't really understand them properly. It depends on the type of work you need doing. If it involves any damp related work and plaster or render work, or pointing you need someone who is experienced with lime.

Emily_Joy

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82177975#Comment_82177975

The house is not listed. The work involves sorting out some ventilation (I have been told that the boiler installation is not compliant because of the alterations by previous owners), repairing old single-glazed sash windows, and maybe a few other things…

twopenny

Do you have an established local builder?

I've found it's worth paying a bit extra to have the job done well as you've asked for. Reliable and do a good job.

But from what you say you need someone for double glazing, a gas engineer to at least look at and tell you what needs doing. Ask for a service which is easy for them and the advice will probably come with it.

Emily_Joy

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82178700#Comment_82178700

I want windows repaired, not replaced. I might look into secondary glazing later. The builder I have known for years has retired… I have had a boiler service and this is how I know that work is needed.