Do your research
Here at T N Design and Build we firmly believe that the key to a successful building project is preparation. Which is why it blows our mind that people still type in ‘local builder’ into Google and just go with whichever company that comes up first. It is important to carry out your own research before you choose your builder. A few things to look at are:
- Previous builds – what type of works do they carry out? Have they carried out jobs for previous customers similar to the one you have in mind for your own home? A good builder will have a portfolio with photos of their previous jobs and should be able to talk through any key points about those jobs.
- Does the builder have an online presence? Don’t just rely on photos on a website – check out social media pictures/reviews/comments.
- Proven track record – is the business established in the local area? Ask around – has the builder completed any projects for your neighbours? Have any local online community groups heard of them/used them for building work before?
Focus on quality
Your first priority when finding a builder should be the quality of their work. Don’t be afraid to ask potential builders what materials they use. They should be using high quality products right across the board.
Ask about the suppliers they use – do they use quality local suppliers? Or do they order budget options online? Are they members of The Federation of Master Builders (FMB)? The FMB is an independent, non-profit trade association which represents around 13,000 small to medium sized building firms, all of which sign up to a strict code of practice.
Remember transparency is critical
Never be afraid to ask detailed or seemingly obvious questions. A good builder should be transparent about the specifications of materials and share specific details with you. Ensure you have a clear understanding on how long the project will take and how they plan on informing you of progress on your build. There should be nothing to hide and you should feel comfortable asking any question. After all, you may not be a building expert and will want to know how every stage of the build works.
Other elements to look out for is to ensure your builder is VAT registered, clearly explains payment terms and adheres to building regulations during the design and build phase.
Communication is key
The ideal builder will ask questions and listen to your goals and vision as well as keep you in the loop about the progress of your build. How will your potential builder do this? If your site agent is unavailable then Is there someone else to talk to? Ask if they have an office team to support you with any questions you may have?
Response time is an important way making a judgement call. If a potential builder takes a while to respond initially, this could be a warning sign for communication levels throughout the build. You want a builder who responds promptly and makes you feel like their only customer.
Can you get along with your builder?
Ultimately, you need to be able to get along with your builder – after all, you are inviting them into your home and trusting them to build you vision and dream space. Your builder should be personable and open to discussing your ideas and vision.
Why you should consider T N Design & Build as your build partner.
With over 18 years in the local Surrey building trade, we believe in delivering transparency from the outset.
We specialise in 4 key areas:
- Design
- Extensions
- Refurbishment
- New Builds
Our professional quotes are incredibly detailed and will provide you with the cost of every material we will use, down to a box of nails.
We pride ourselves on staying on budget. You stay in control with stage payments fortnightly. We work with you and advise on the progress of works which are checked against the plan. Invoicing of work against a detailed schedule of materials means that you can plan and manage your budget with no hidden surprises.
Someone is always in the office at the end of the phone if there is anything you need to discuss. We are with you until the job is done.
Get in touch now to discuss your ideas.