How to Choose a Contractor?

Published date: 23rd January 2020

1. Word of Mouth

You are more likely to watch a film or read a book your friend recommends and the same goes for contractors. If your friend recommends a good electrician, and had a positive experience with them, then you are more likely to use them for your own project. Don’t know anyone that you can ask for a recommendation? Websites like TrustMark and Buy With Confidence can help. Both are non-profit, with TrustMark also government-endorsed and a requirement for builders through the Self Build Wales scheme. All traders are verified and vetted when they sign up so that you can choose a contractor with confidence.

2. Get a Contract

Draw up a contract once you have selected a contractor. The Homeowners Alliance recommends using the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Domestic Building Contract and has outlined its benefits on its website. This will avoid misunderstandings, gives you peace of mind and acts as a legal basis for any dispute resolution.

3. Don’t Get Hung up on Price

If you go with the cheapest offer, you might end up getting what you pay for in terms of quality or service, which will wind up costing you more in the long run. If a quote seems too low, there could be hidden costs you are not aware of. Take a look at a contractor’s portfolio to get a clearer idea of the quality of their work. You can compare estimates in your area to see if you’re being over or undercharged.

4. Ask the right questions

Ask the right questions to get an idea of how the overall process will work before you hire a contractor. This way you will know what to expect when works begin. Think of asking questions such as; who will be the main point of contact during the project? What is their dispute resolution process? What hours will they be working on the project?

5. Don’t Get Fooled

Phoney builders are on the rise claiming to be members of professional bodies, make sure you check with the professional body directly before hiring a contractor. Insurance is important to ask about as your builder should be insured to cover themselves against property damage and personal and public liability.

If you are building your own home, no matter how much care you or your contractor take there is always a risk of defects. Our warranty gives you security, protection and peace of mind.

Find out more on our dedicated page for Self Build Warranties.

Please Note: Every care was taken to ensure the information in this article was correct at the time of publication. Any written guidance provided does not replace the reader’s professional judgement and any construction project should comply with the relevant Building Regulations or applicable technical standards. However, for the most up to date LABC Warranty technical guidance please refer to your Risk Management Surveyor and the latest version of the LABC Warranty Technical Manual.