I want to convert my loft but the last time I paid someone to do work on my house it ended in a dispute with the builder and I felt I’d been ripped off. How can I make sure that doesn’t happen again?


Once your checks have provided a list of reputable tradesmen, get references and three written, itemised quotes from different builders. Make sure your quotes are comparable, whether VAT is included and it is clear who is buying what materials - you or the builder.


It’s important that you talk through with your builder about what happens if something goes wrong and who pays – for example if there are delays in completing the job or you come across a complication.


Get everything you’ve agreed down on paper. Your contract with your builder should be in place to protect you and the trader. It is a legally binding document. Read through the contract and make sure that you obtain a written quotation and all terms agreed in writing.


For more information, see the Builders and home improvements in the Consumer section on Adviceguide /www.adviceguide.org.uk


West Devon Citizens Advice Bureau TAVISTOCK Kingdon House, North Street, Tavistock PL19 0AN


Open Monday Wednesday 10-2pm & Friday 10.00am – 2.00pm


Home improvements gone wrong leave many people feeling ‘once bitten, twice shy’ but there are some simple things you can do to sieve out the experts from the cowboys – and get the job done to your satisfaction, and on budget.


Before you start, outline exactly what work you want doing and what that includes. For example, if you are having a new kitchen put in, are you moving where the sink or washing machine would be?


Do your research to find the best people for the job. Check the Local Authority Assured Trader Scheme Network at www.oft.gov.uk, www.oft.gov.uk/laatsn websites or use TrustMark www.trustmark.org.uk to find a registered builder, or you can check online for websites with a feedback option to rate tradesmen.


Drop in or ring 08444 111 444 during these hours. OKEHAMPTON


Ockment Centre, North Street, Okehampton EX20 1AR


Open Tuesday Wednesday 10- 2pm & Thursday 10.00am-2.00pm.


Drop in or ring 08444 111 444 during these hours.


Website: www.westdevoncab.org.uk West Devon CAB also offers “Drop In” Outreach advice sessions at Bere Alston Surgery and The Community Centre, Princetown, every 3rd Wednesday of the month. For further information, or to make an appointment, ring 01837 52105.


www.dartmoordirectory.co.uk Find Dartmoor Traders, Services and Professionals online


28


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32