Choosing and Working With a Builder in London

Price from complete information

The single biggest protection against cost surprises is tendering from a complete package. If builders price from incomplete drawings, their quotes are not comparable and the cheapest number often hides the most assumptions. A coordinated tender package — drawings, schedules and an outline specification — lets you compare contractors on a like-for-like basis.

Run a fair tender

Invite a small list of suitable contractors, issue the same package to each, and manage their questions during the tender period so everyone prices the same scope. When the prices return, look beyond the headline cost at what is included, what is assumed, and how each builder has approached the work.

Use a proper building contract

For any significant project, a formal building contract — such as a JCT form suited to the size of works — protects both parties. It sets out the scope, price, programme, how payments are made and how changes are handled, and provides a framework for completion and defects. A contract administrator can run it impartially during construction.

Protect quality on site

Even a well-detailed project raises questions during construction. Architectural support during the build — answering queries, issuing supplementary details and, where appointed, administering the contract — keeps decisions aligned with the design rather than left to the builder under time pressure.

Questions to ask a builder

Ask about recent comparable projects and references, who will run the job day to day, how they price variations, their programme and availability, and their insurance. Clear answers, and a willingness to work to a proper contract, are good signs.

• Recent comparable projects and references
• Who manages the job on site day to day
• How variations are priced and agreed
• Programme, start date and availability
• Insurance and warranties