Process & Practicalities
How to choose a builder
What's actually worth checking before you commit.
Choosing a builder comes down to checking they're properly insured, asking to see evidence of similar completed work, getting a detailed written quote rather than a headline figure, and being clear on how the project will be managed day to day — not just who's swinging the hammer.
Last updated 17 August 2026
What to actually check
Public liability insurance, and ideally professional indemnity cover, is worth confirming directly rather than assuming. Ask to see evidence of previous, comparable work, and where possible speak to a previous client rather than relying on reviews alone.
A detailed written quote, broken down by stage or trade rather than a single headline number, makes it far easier to compare like for like and to spot what's included versus what's a provisional sum.
Management matters as much as the trades
Who's actually coordinating the project day to day — sequencing trades, ordering materials, resolving problems as they come up — has a bigger effect on how smoothly a project runs than any single trade's individual skill. Ask specifically who that person is and how they'll communicate with you.
A sensible pace of decision-making
Be cautious of anyone pushing you to commit before you've had a proper chance to compare quotes and ask questions. A contractor confident in their own work is generally comfortable with you taking the time to check them out properly.
Take this further
Have a question about your own project?
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