5 Common Builder Problems and When to Call a Professional

The problems that come up most

These are the jobs builders are most commonly booked for. Catching them early almost always costs less:

• cracks appearing in new plaster or render
• a leaking flat roof on a new extension
• doors sticking after structural work
• damp patches on recently built walls
• unfinished snagging items after final payment

What you can safely check yourself

Before calling anyone, gather information: when the problem started, whether it's getting worse, and clear photos. This helps a professional give you a realistic first assessment and helps you describe the job accurately when collecting quotes.

Basic observation is always safe; DIY repair is not always. If the problem involves gas, electrics, working at height or the structure of your home, stop at observation and call a professional.

Signs it's time to book someone

Book a professional when the problem is getting worse, when it involves safety, when your own attempts haven't held, or when you simply don't know the cause. A correct diagnosis is usually cheaper than a wrong repair.

For context on cost: Day rates for a general builder typically run £150–£250, with a labourer adding £100–£150. Most jobs are quoted as a fixed price rather than day work.

Choosing who to call

There is no legal registration scheme for general building work, but TrustMark endorsement and Federation of Master Builders membership are checked credentials you can verify on the organisations' own websites.

Check recent reviews before booking — Hammerscore company pages for builders combine ratings from several platforms, and the low-star reviews tell you most about how problems were handled.