TOP TIPS: FINDING TRADES

Recommendations from friends, family, colleagues, neighbours and other trades or building professionals is always the best first port of call.

Failing that, get on the internet. Well-known sites include Checkatrade, Rated People and the Accreditus Register. Do be wary of online reviews, though – there’s no substitute for meeting clients face-to-face.

Always ask for references and follow up on them. If possible, visit both a live site and a finished job – speak to the client and check how happy they are with aspects such as quality, timeliness, payment terms etc.

The best builders and trades are usually very busy, so don’t expect them to be available at the drop of a hat.

Bear in mind that experience can mean just as much as accreditations.

Ascertain whether they have adequate insurance, ask who they subcontract to (if a general builder) and consider credit checking them to establish their financial solvency.

Always invite at least three trades to quote, and give them as much detail as possible in the specification documents. That way, it will be easier to compare and sense-check quotes.

Include images that demonstrate the quality you’re expecting (neat brickwork, perfectly-aligned tiles etc). This will counter the argument that “I’ve always done it like that and nobody’s complained before.”

Good trades should be happy to have a proper contract in place, including payment terms and what happens if changes or disputes arise, as it protects both you and them. Contractstore’s self builder pack is a great ‘Plain English’ option.

Don’t just take the lowest quote without scrutinising it. Is there anything missing or unclear? A cowboy will know that, once they’ve got a foot in the door, they can add extras along the way.