Many landlords and property developers will need to call upon a builder from time to time, as well as many of us who simply want to make some changes to the properties we’re living in. If you don’t know anybody in the business already then it can be awkward trying to identify which contractor you should go for. However, there are a couple of organisations which make the process a lot simpler.
How to Find a Good Builder
One of the first places to seek out a reputable builder is at the Federation of Master Builders website (linked below). You can also call them at 0330 333 7777, though it is easier to just go straight to the website’s search function where you can input your postcode to identify a registered builder in your area.
The Federation of Master Builders was founded back in 1941 and is the UK building industry’s largest trades association. Their members must sign-up to a Code of Practice with their trading address and VAT registration details, as well as undergo stringent checks before their membership is accepted. The checks carried out by the Federation include a check-up on the builder’s public liability insurance, verification that they have no un-discharged bankruptcies or relevant/outstanding County Court Judgements, as well as a full credit, public record and director check.
The Federation of Master Builders also runs a dispute service to help smooth things out if any problems should arise between a contractor and their customer. This means that you don’t need to worry if there is any disagreement with regards the standard of quality of a particular part of the job being done. If it has indeed been done poorly, then the Federation will not accept that from one of its registered members.
Use Trust Mark for Information and Advice
Trust Mark is the only Government endorsed scheme for registering tradesmen working in or around people’s homes. Trust Mark awards businesses who register with them their accreditation only after thorough vetting and on-site inspections which Trust Mark uses to ensure the registering company is meeting and even helping to raise industry standards. The organisation is also supported by various consumer protection groups like the Citizens Advice Bureau and Trading Standards.
You can contact Trust Mark on 0333 555 1234 or visit the Trust Mark website to search for builders or firms you are interested in using to check whether they are trustworthy. The website also features plenty of information regarding what to expect from your relationship with the contractor, as well as keeping you informed on the standard of workmanship you should expect once a contractor has been hired and work is underway.
