Laying the foundations for a perfect build


Research, plan, define, talk......complete!


P


lanning a new extension, renovation or complete new build is an exciting time. In your mind’s eye


you can already picture your finished project and the day you move in, but (obviously!) between the planning stage and the moving in day, there’s the build itself. It’s a bit like decorating, every expert will tell you that the key to a perfectly finished room is meticulous preparation of all the surfaces and don’t even think of cutting any corners. Likewise, the key to a successful, stress free project is a well thought through and thoroughly researched plan, which means leaving no stone unturned. Remember, the better your plan, the


smoother the whole experience will be. These tips below will help you to find the best builder for your job:


■ Ask family, friends and neighbours to recommend builders they have used recently


■ Search for professional builders in your area on the FMB website at: www.fmb.org.uk/fab


■ Produce a detailed written brief of the work you want done, including detailed drawings


■ Invite at least three builders to visit the project, give them your plans and ask them to quote


■ Ask the builders for references from previous customers and follow them up


■ Check that the quotations include EVERYTHING that you would like doing –including removal of rubbish and making good


■ Don’t award a job on price alone. Consider the references and how well you got on with the builder when he visited


82 Self Build Homes | April 2012


Check that the quotations include EVERYTHING that you would like doing


Why you should choose an FMB Builder The Federation of Master Builders


(FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK building industry, representing around 11,000 building companies. It promotes professionalism and high quality workmanship among small and medium-sized building firms throughout the UK. Only builders and specialists who


can comply with the FMB’s strict entry criteria are accepted as members. The Federation logo on builders’ vehicles and stationery is widely accepted as the hallmark of a builder who takes pride in the quality of their work, and who matches it with an equally well- run business.


■ Check that the builder has the appropriate level of public liability insurance for your job


■ Set yourself a budget and build in some contingency funding - 15 percent of the total cost is about right


■ Agree a payment plan to suite you and your builder


■ Always draw up a WRITTEN contract with your builder – you can download contracts for free at www. fmb.org.uk/find-abuilder/ free-contracts


The key to a successful, stress-free project is a well thought through and thoroughly researched plan


So choosing a builder who’s a


member of the FMB ensures a really good start to any building project.


LEAVE no stone unturned when planning your project


Choosing an FMB builder ensures a really good start


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