15 Questions to Ask a Builder Before You Hire Them

About the business

• How long have you been trading under this name?
• Can I see photos of similar jobs, or speak to a recent customer?
• Where can I read your reviews?
• Do you hold public liability insurance, and can I see the certificate?
• Are you registered with any scheme needed for this work (for example Gas Safe for gas work)?

About the quote and payment

A good answer here is always “it’s in writing”.

• Is this a fixed quote or an estimate?
• Does the price include materials, VAT and waste removal?
• What deposit do you need, and what is it for?
• How are stage payments linked to finished work?
• How will extra work or changes be priced and agreed?

About the job itself

• When can you start, and how long will it take?
• Who will be on site day to day, and will you use subcontractors?
• Does this need planning permission or Building Regulations approval, and who arranges it?
• How will you protect my home and clear up each day?
• What guarantee do you give, and what happens if a problem appears later?

Write it down

Ask for the answers to be reflected in the written quote or a simple contract. If plans change mid-job, confirm the new price and scope by text or email before work continues. Clear paperwork protects both you and the trade.