Choosing a Great Builder

Let's face it - choosing a builder can be a really stressful and difficult decision to make! At TED Construction & Developments Ltd, we understand how the presence of a team of builders can be a disruption to your home routine. Whether you're having a new kitchen, a small extension or a full on loft conversion, here are six tips for choosing the perfect builder.

Recommendations

Ask friends, family and neighbours for word of mouth recommendations. If they have had a positive experience hiring a building crew for a project, they will likely be happy to share information on their experience.

Online Research

When using an online search to find potential builders be sure to have a thorough look at the building company's website, online reviews and social pages. Images of previous work will give you an idea of experience and skills while the overall vibe of the website will give you an indication of whether they would be a good fit for you.

Memberships

When you are doing your further research, check the trade memberships your potential builder subscribes to.

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the UK's largest construction trade association. To become a member of the FMB, a building company must pass a thorough vetting process which includes an independent, on site inspection of work carried out. TED Construction & Developments Ltd have been proud members of the FMB since 2019.

Checkatrade is another useful online resource for researching builders and related trades, of which the TED team are proud members. Checkatrade also carry out checks to ensure trades listed have valid PLI insurance as well as having controls in place to ensure that any reviews received are genuine.

Communication Is Key For Any Successful Building Project

Questions for your Builder

Have a long list of questions about the project you are proposing and ask about all aspects of working with your builder. A good builder is a problem solver and wants to make your project work for you, so be be prepared to ask detailed questions. Once you have your quote also be sure to question any elements on the quote that you do not understand. Establish whether there will be a specific project manager who you can liaise with during the course of the build. Communication is key for any successful building project.

The Building Team

Your builder may be a one man band who pulls in sub contractors for various parts of the project. Other building companies employ a small team so you will see a regular bunch of faces working on the project. Choose the builder you feel comfortable working with - as they may be around your home for a while!

Happy Client. Happy Builder

Despite the cliché of builders being unreliable as a trade, this is not always the case. Doing thorough research up front will help with choosing a great builder and, in turn, will ensure a happy, successful building experience.

If we can support you with your next building project, please contact the TED team on 01243 278018 or 07717 012415. Alternatively please drop us a line by email on info@tedltd.co.uk