How should I choose a builder ?

• Consider employing a professional to help you plan your project.
• If you don't employ a professional, get advice from someone in the industry you know and trust.
• Discuss the extent of your proposals with your professional contact. (Do you need plans preparing ? Is site supervision part of the package ?)
• Always get at least three quotes and have them checked.
• Don't automatically go for the cheapest price.
  

What should I ask the builder I am considering using ?

• where have you worked before ?
• Can you supply references from satisfied customers ?
• Are you happy for me to see your work ?
• What is your expertise in the partciular project ?
• How do you want to be paid ? On completion or in stages ?
• Are you happy to accept a retention clause ?
• Can you give me a start date and a completion date ?
• Will you accept a penalty clause on failure to complete on time ?
• Will you agree to independant arbitration should we have a dispute ?