Working with a Builder
Finding, vetting and managing builders and contractors
Browse our free UK planning guides on working with a builder below. Written in plain English for homeowners, self-builders, developers and planning professionals.
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?
2 min readBuilding 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.
2 min readBuilder 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.
2 min readHow 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.
3 min readHow 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.
3 min readHow 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.
3 min readHow 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.
4 min readBuilder vs Contractor: What's the Difference?
The difference between builders, contractors, subcontractors and other terms used in the construction industry.
4 min readBuilding 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.
4 min readBuilding 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.
5 min read