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Below, we cover tips for finding a skilled builder:

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How to find a reliable, local builder

If you’re thinking of hiring a builder, there are a few things you need to consider before you request a quote. We recommend you take the time to research a builder who will make sure work is carried out safely and professionally.  

Why hiring a local building contractor is important 

If you can, it’s always a good idea to hire a builder who works locally. The benefits of this include: 

  1. Getting a speedy response for urgent renovations or projects that span multiple days 
  2. Builders near you are familiar with your area’s climate, and will be able to recommend materials and methods that are well suited to your region  
  3. Local builders will be familiar with your area’s building regulations and the permits you’ll need to get before building work can begin 

Find a local builder by posting a job today. 

Picture of a builder using a drill to drill into a piece of wood

What is the cost of typical building projects? 

Your builder can help you with a range of different projects, from bricklaying to refurbishments. They work on existing properties as well as new builds. Below, we cover a few of the top jobs builders frequently carry out, alongside their average cost: 

Type of job Average cost  
Conservatory £30,000 – £40,000 
House extension £45,000 – £142,000 
Garage conversion £18,000 – £28,300 
Basement conversion £120,000 – £160,000 
Loft conversion £40,000 – £150,000 
Cavity wall insulation £700 – £6,100 

Your building company will likely use a team of specialists to complete your project, so make sure to include plenty of details about your job when you request a quote.  

Some projects call for specific tradespeople. For example, you’ll need a bathroom fitter for a new bathroom refurbishment, or a kitchen specialist for a kitchen renovation. Driveway replacements are carried out by driveway specialists. 

How much you end up spending on a building job will depend on a range of factors, including the size and scope of your project and where you live in the UK. 

For more information on costs and other considerations involved in getting these projects done in 2023, check out our home improvement cost guides: 

For landscaping projects, read our garden landscaping cost guide or speak to a garden landscaper. Or, if you’re hoping to get a wooden structure built, then speak to a carpentry specialist. 

Planning permission for building jobs 

Whether or not you’ll need to apply for planning permission will depend on the scope of your project.  

Your builders will be able to advise you on what approval you’ll need, so make sure you ask during the hiring process. For more information on building regulations, read our planning permission guide or visit the Planning Portal website. 

Factors to consider when choosing a local builder 

Choosing a reliable building company to carry out work on your home is very important. Failing to do this can result in stress and expensive repairs.   

Before you hire, you should do your research to ensure that your tradespeople: 

  1. Are a skilled company with a strong history of high standard projects  
  2. Have all the necessary licenses and insurance needed to protect you and their workers 
  3. Have a good range of positive reviews from previous customers vouching for their reliability  
  4. Are offering the building services you need, and are available to carry out the work in the timeframe you need it to be completed by 
  5. Are quoting a price and payment option that you are happy with, having compared the quote with other building companies  

FIND A LOCAL BUILDER

Picture of a builder building a brick wall

Questions to ask a building contractor 

Do you have public liability insurance and what does this cover? 

While it’s not a requirement for them to have it, it’s a good idea for your builders to have public liability insurance to cover you and them against any accidental damage done to your home or personal injuries. Make sure to always ask your builder what insurance they have before you hire them. This will guarantee protection for both parties and ensure your builder is legally compliant. 

How many years of experience do you have? 

Knowing how many years of experience your builder has will allow you to pick a tradesperson who you are confident has enough experience to carry out a high-quality job. When you’re finding a builder through Rated People, head over to their profile to check out the pictures on their work gallery and their ratings and reviews. 

Do you use subcontractors? If so, are they licensed and insured? 

If your builder is planning on using subcontractors, then it’s a good idea to confirm the qualifications and insurance coverage of everyone who will be working on the project. Your builders will almost definitely be using a team of specialists, whether they’re subcontractors or fully employed by the builder. Anyone working with gas needs to be registered with Gas Safe, and anyone installing electrics (in England and Wales) needs to be Part P certified to be able to self-certify their work. These tradespeople will have valid documentation that you can ask to check. 

What is your estimated timeline for completing the project? 

Knowing what the estimated timeline for completing the project is will help you set realistic expectations about how long your renovation will take to complete. 

How much will the job cost? 

Asking how much the job will cost will help you budget for your project and will ensure price transparency before you hire. How much you’ll end up spending depends on the scope of your project, and where you live in the UK, so make sure you add plenty of details when you post a job. 

Picture of a builder sawing into a piece of wood wearing protective yellow and orange work gloves

Tips for working with a local builder 

  1. Be crystal clear about what you want and how much you’re willing to spend. Clear communication is key to ensuring you and your builder are on the same page about your project’s requirements and your budget constraints 
  1. Stay in the loop and ask for updates as the project unfolds. This will allow you to address any potential issues before they escalate 
  1. Make sure you document agreements or changes to the original plan. Keeping a written record of all modifications to your project, including timelines and costs, will serve as a valuable reference point to prevent misunderstandings and ensure work is carried out to a high standard 
  1. If you have any concerns, talk to your builder straight away. Open discussion is more likely to lead to a swift resolution, and will help you maintain a positive working relationship with your builders 

Find a skilled builder in your local area 

we’re dedicated to making your house a home. Specializing in joinery, kitchen and bathroom makeovers, and property maintenance, we bring expertise and creativity to every project. Let’s work together to enhance your living spaces! Find us on Facebook or Our website

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Reviewed by Chris on 14/2/2024

Excellent work. I could not believe how quickly he got the job done. Worked non-stop and left my bedroom spotless. Competitive prices, I would definitely recommend.

hello potential customer .if your reading this you are either interested to find the right trades person. or you are checking me out because I have answered your post.and in that case it means that I really want your job. I will promise to beat or match any quote .as long as it is the same work involved and product supply. also I will give a ten year no quibble builders guarantee. NB (not to be confused with insurance backed). I supply terms and conditions favourable to all my customers .giving time schedules deposit and payment terms . hswa rams ect . and the provision of full public liability insurance indemnity. and a long list of refs. My own personal qualifications are and this believe me is a long story as I am now 61 years still as fit as a fiddle and all set to work till my 70s god willing.but I started aged 16 as an indentured apprentice as bricklayer , I was forced to by my father but in those days one didn't have a choice. so I had to do it and indentured meant under contract till my time was served. and along with college city and guilds cert. and other qualifications were winning a scholarship aged 20years to a trade summer school Stirling university hswa and industrial related studies. and of course more latterly ConstructionSkills certification scheme gold card. national diploma level 4 construction and civil engineering management. workplace first aid level 3 .but above all quality craftsmanship and of course smiling happy service. look forward to meeting you IAN LAMONT

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Reviewed by Helen on 24/11/2023

Ian was excellent. He came over quickly, was very knowledgeable, polite and professional. He kept us up to date throughout the process and made sure that there was no mess in the house - despite the fact it was necessary to walk through the house to get materials. Would highly recommend.

Family run business, with thirty years experience in the industry. We are a friendly and reliable service.

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Reviewed by Jane on 12/7/2023

Great guys. Great job done. Highly recommend

With over 10y on to construction industry,we operate a small family business owner aimed to provide an high quality services across the trades we offer, We have over 5y experience doing painting and decorating works leaving behind smile and the best experience, From Tv wall mountings to removals, storage ,and refurbishment,we cover all aspects of works . For a friendly man part of the team on site ,please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us..

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Reviewed by Neil on 17/12/2023

Quick, smart and really good guys. Brilliant service.

John McKinney Builders have been building on over 50 years of experience, established in 1970. We carry out extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments, garage builds & conversions , kitchen fitting , heating etc. From planning to completion. Our quality of workmanship & finish is second to none, no snagging needed or call back. WE SPECIALISE IN THE INSTALLATION OF RSJ,s

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Reviewed by Becky on 6/4/2022

Time served, skilled Painter and decorator with 22 years experience with this industry. I am dependable, hard working individual that takes great pride in my work. I engoy working as part of a team however, I cane be relied upon to work on my own. I have full clean driving licence with my own transport.

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Reviewed by Lesley on 7/11/2023

Very pleased with Mark. I have his number now and would definitely use him again. He painted my pizza oven a metal bench and a metal plant stand. He rubbed them down and gave them two coats of paint. They look a good as new.

Hello and Welcome to C M Painting and Decorating Services. With over 16 Years Experience We Strive to meet all of existing Customers and new Clients needs when it comes to it. We are Fully Insured through Simply Business and look forward to hearing from you in your next Project.

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Reviewed by Bettina on 14/3/2024

I had Craig over today the 14.03. 24 to paint the ceiling and walls in my entrance and hallway and he's done a smashing job ,he works in a clean manner and cleaned up after the job was done. I am very happy with the end result so much so that he will also paint my bedroom and frontroom. Crag is very polite and easy to talk to and I would recommend him without hesitation.

We are at your disposal to help you with Leo pop landscaping paving construction Ltd We arrange tiling works, gardens, paving and other interior paint?ing and exterior jobs .

Lambarde is located in the Sidcup area and covers most of the South east, we have a combined experience of 45 years, I started carpentry as soon as I left school then going to college for two years becoming a fully qualified carpenter with Levels 1,2 NVQ Diploma. All of our team carry public liability insurance, so you’re in safe hands. We also work alongside other fully qualified trustworthy tradesman for our refurbishment works. We pride ourselves on: • Workmanship • Time keeping • Honest communication Portfolio on Instagram: Lambardecarpentry Director: Scott Kempster We specialize in: • extensions •.Loft conversions • Kitchens • Internal and external doors • Skirting and architrave • Roofs cut/pitched • Decking • Flooring laminate/herringbone • Ironmongery • Cladding • Refurbishments • Painting and decorating Free quote available

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Reviewed by Mark on 7/1/2023

Scott and his team did a fantastic job with our loft conversion. He was approachable, honest and friendly throughout. But most of all an excellent carpenter who did a first rate job with our loft and also dealt with our many requests and amendments with patience and professionalism. I have recommended Scott to friends and neighbours already and would recommend him for any work you are doing.

jarad London Construction Company have partnered with homeowners, designers and architects to deliver unrivalled construction, renovation and refurbishment services across London and the Home Counties.

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Reviewed by Khin on 25/8/2023

job is done very quickly.

Reliable, trusted working in the business since 2000. We work in conjunction with the client to get the best outcome for any job, within the time frame required. That is why we are trusted and recommended by many clients.

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Reviewed by Sam on 13/10/2020

Very good and reliable.

The Business offers a range of Joinery & Small Building Work*Loft Conversions*Decking*Fencing Laminate Flooring*Kitchens fitted*Guttering/Pointing*Doors/Windows fitted*Staircases & Spindles* Painting & Decorating *No Job too big or too Small*

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Reviewed by James on 26/2/2024

Did a very good job for us. Decent price as well. No hesitation in recommending them.

?I mostly work on recommendations and ongoing works with previous customers. I fall back on RP when required. I’ve 10 years of experience and fully insured with Axa Plc with no claims to date.

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Reviewed by Ann on 5/3/2024

James kept to the agreed price Even though he had to apply several coates of paints to cover nicotine stains.. Also several Coates of stain block. He is meticulous and knowledgeable. I will have him back to do some more work. Many thanks to James

We are an established building company that has been trading for 20 years.Our work covers all types of construction from new builds to repairs,including extensions and loft conversions.All our work is high quality and reasonably priced.No job is too small

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Reviewed by Emma on 23/6/2023

Job was easy to arrange, done quickly & good price too. Very pleased & would definitely use them again.

We provide a high standard of work, always leave a customer satisfied with what ever work we have completed We have joiners roofers & floor fitting on our team. Multi skilled firm that covers most area of work. have a look through my photo gallery & see what work we have undertaken.

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Reviewed by Mark on 18/2/2024

We have been in the construction industry for 26 years, with extensive experience. We take great pride in our work, and make sure that our customers all always informed at all times. We do all types of building works, from Kitchens and Bathrooms to flooring and general maintenance, plumbing and extensions. we look forward to seeimg you on your next project.

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Reviewed by Val on 1/2/2024

General Building and maintenance New builds Exstensions Restoration Renovation

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Reviewed by Andrew on 18/7/2020

James and the team were 1st rate. Diligent in making sure that we designed what we needed and came up with suggestions which we incorporated. The team was always on time, polite and their workmanship was great. I’ll definitely recommend them.

Roofing Experts

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Reviewed by richard on 21/12/2023

Very good job done in a timely manner and explained at every step. Site was left tidy and James and Dec removed all the old material. Well done.

We cover all aspects of plastering, dot and dab, skim, traditional methods can be done (sand / cement and skim). We also do external rendering including coloured render. Pictures and references can be supplied. We are happy to come and give you a quote.

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Reviewed by Mike on 13/5/2018

Chris is a great guy, plastering work was excellent and tidied up after job. Cannot fault his work and would highly recommend.

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