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What to ask before hiring a builder

A building project is a large enough commitment that it is worth asking a few direct questions before you sign anything, whoever you are talking to. Here is what we think is actually worth asking.

Are they insured, and for what?

Public liability insurance covers damage or injury during the work; it is worth asking to see evidence of it rather than just taking the word for it, and checking the cover level is reasonable for the size of your project.

Are they part of a trade body, and can you verify it?

Federation of Master Builders (FMB) membership involves a vetting process and gives you access to FMB's own dispute resolution service if something goes wrong, which is a genuine, checkable difference from an unaffiliated tradesperson. FMB's own website lets you search and verify a member's status directly, worth doing rather than taking a badge on a website at face value.

What does the quote actually include?

A written quote should specify what is and is not included: materials, waste removal, making good after the work, and what happens if something unexpected turns up once a wall or floor is opened. A verbal price with no detail behind it is much harder to hold anyone to later.

What happens if the scope changes?

It is normal for a genuine surprise (rot behind a wall, a drain in the wrong place) to change a project's scope once work is underway on an older building. What matters is whether you are told and asked before extra cost is incurred, or whether it just appears on the final invoice.

Can you see previous work or talk to a previous client?

A builder confident in their own work should be able to point you to completed projects or a client willing to talk about their experience. Hesitation here is worth noting.