Before hiring a builder for an extension or loft conversion, ask about insurance, accreditation, past projects, and payment structure — a reputable local builder will answer all of these clearly and in writing. Vague or evasive answers on any of these are a warning sign.
Insurance and accreditation
Ask for proof of public liability insurance (minimum £2 million is standard for domestic work) and any relevant accreditation (FMB, NHBC, TrustMark, or trade-specific schemes). Ask to see documents, not just be told verbally.
References and past work
Ask for at least two references from similar recent projects in your area, ideally ones you can visit or photos with details of the scope — a builder confident in their work will offer this without hesitation.
Contracts and payment structure
Insist on a written contract covering scope, timeline, materials, and payment schedule. Be cautious of any builder asking for a large upfront deposit before work starts — staged payments tied to project milestones are standard practice.
Planning and building control responsibility
Clarify who is responsible for submitting planning applications and arranging Building Regulations sign-off — some builders manage this, others expect the homeowner to arrange it separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get multiple quotes?
Yes — always get at least three like-for-like quotes covering the same scope of work, so you can compare fairly rather than just comparing headline prices.
What deposit is reasonable for a builder to ask for?
A small deposit to cover initial material orders is normal, but a large upfront payment before any work starts is a common red flag — staged payments against completed work are standard and protect both sides.
