Working with a Builder

Finding, vetting and managing builders and contractors

Builder Payment Schedules: How and When to Pay - Getting the payment schedule right protects both you and your builder. Here's how to structure payments fairly.
Builder Warranties and Guarantees: What Protection Do You Have? - What warranties and guarantees should you expect from your builder, and what protection do they actually give you?
Building Control and Building Regulations: A Homeowner's Guide - Building regulations are separate from planning permission. Here's what they cover and how building control inspections work.
How to Find a Good Builder in the UK - Practical advice on finding a reliable, competent builder for your project, from sourcing recommendations to checking credentials.
How Many Quotes Should I Get from Builders? - How many builder quotes you should get, what to include in your brief, and how to compare quotes fairly.
How Much Does a Builder Charge Per Day in the UK? - Typical daily rates for builders in the UK, what affects the price, and why day rates are not always the best way to price a project.
How to Avoid Cowboy Builders - Red flags to watch for when hiring a builder, how to protect yourself, and what to do if things go wrong.
Builder vs Contractor: What's the Difference? - The difference between builders, contractors, subcontractors and other terms used in the construction industry.
Building Regulations vs Planning Permission: What's the Difference? - The key differences between building regulations and planning permission, when each is needed, and why you often need both.
Building Contracts Explained: JCT, FMB and More - A guide to building contracts in the UK, including JCT Minor Works, FMB contracts, what to include, payment stages and how to handle disputes.