7 key considerations to find a builder that’s right for you
With rapidly spiralling house prices in Cambridge, a growing number of homeowners are choosing to extend their existing property to gain extra space without having to sell up. And although the cost of building an extension can be significant, it is a sure-fire way to add value to your home.
Whether you want a new build, an extension or an internal reconfiguration to make better use of your existing space, you will need to have good design plans. You will also need to find a builder you can trust in Cambridge to turn your design into a reality; on time and on budget.
How to find a builder you can trust in Cambridge
As with any major project, there are a lot of factors that need careful consideration before any work can be undertaken. Furthermore you should only bring builders and building services into the process once a final design has been selected because this will form part of the interview process.
With a general idea of how you want your home to look from the inside and outside, a dimensioned floor plan and some preliminary material selections, it’s possible to provide preliminary estimates of cost.
A common complaint of builders is being brought into the process too soon. Builders cannot quote without both plans and an idea of your budget. These seven key points are essential to achieve a successful, stress free project.
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Forward planning
In Cambridge good builders are busy and book up because they are in high demand, so schedule this into your planning. It may take a couple of weeks to just set up the interviews and generally at least two to three weeks after interviews to receive the estimates. Altogether you may have to wait longer for some contractors.
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Multiple quotes
Always talk to a minimum of three builders, and ask for quotes. Furthermore, if you want to use specialised materials in the building of your extension, discuss these with your builder as they may be able to secure discounted prices. Finally, make sure the quote includes all building supplies.
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Referrals and recommendations
Ask to talk to some of their customers and see some of their previous work to ensure their quality. Follow-up their references and do additional research before making a decision about the builder you will hire.
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Go local
Try to use a local firm, as this will impact on the final cost of the project. Travel time is calculated into the final cost and congestion in Cambridge is a real problem causing delays.
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Good relationship
Make sure that you like the builder and you have a good rapport. Ask to meet other key members of their team. You can potentially be spending a lot of time in their company so you want the experience to be as positive and stress-free as possible. Therefore having a good relationship build on trust, cooperation and clear communications is essential.
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Secure contract
Once you have picked your builder, it is vital that you make sure you know the terms of your arrangement by completing a proper contract. You should agree on a timetable with a predefined completion date. However, you may want to keep this flexible as it may be subject to the availability of certain materials, weather or changes you make to the extension’s plans.
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Clear payment terms
You shouldn’t need to pay a deposit as most builders have a cash flow and credit with local building suppliers, but if you do provide a down payment, agree to pay only for the first stage of work in advance. Once the extension is finished, make sure you are fully satisfied with the work before paying the outstanding fees.
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Further reading:
10 ways to manage a stress-free home improvement project – the contract and more
How to find trusted builders in Cambridge – 18 questions you must ask