avoiding cowboy builders

jackyash

I am on the verge of employing builders to do an extension on our home. All builders recommended by friends etc. are busy for months. Have finally found a builder I think I'm happy with and have taken up references etc. but I still feel that I'm taking a huge step into the unknown and may be making a very expensive mistake. I can not afford a quantity surveyor or project manager - is there anything else that I can do to protect myself?
Does anyone know of any message boards / chat rooms giving recommendations / warnings of builders in the Consett area or has anyone used Castleside Developments for any building work? All advice very gratefully received. Thanks in advance.

macduf

I am a Builder based in Yorkshire.
My advice would be to visit at least 2 of their last customers and get their feedback. You cant go on what people tell you who have not had any work done. Also make sure they have Public Liability Insurance. For some reason I have never been asked but it could be important.

jackyash

Have done the former and will definitely do the latter. Many thanks. As a builder I would welcome your comments on the following - once work commences, I have agreed to be invoiced for work already carried out, on a monthly basis - which seems fair enough - but what happens if before the end of the job the cost of the work that I've already been billed for exceeds the amount quoted for the whole job? We are going to sign a contract, that presumably must be honoured, but, in reality how enforceable is that?

macduf

In case your wondering why I am able to answer so quickly I am off due to an accident at work.
I will tell you how I would charge you.
I have a start date and will have materials on site and around the 3rd day I require a part payment. You are in effect funding the Job
If it was a 2 Storey extension my Stage payments would be
1= Commencment, 2= DPC, 3= 1st floor Joists, 4= Pan (ready for roof) 5= Roof Tiled, 6=Windows/Doors on site, 7=Windows/Doors fitted, 8=Plastered, 9=Completion.
If there are any Variations in the Schedule it needs typing out and signing before the work is carried out to avoid forgotten extras at the end of the Job.
You need defining stages otherwise you are at risk of disagreeing.

marybishop

Check with your local Trading Standards office and see if they have a list of reputable local builders you could approach for quotes. They may also have a list of ones to avoid!!!