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Carpenters & Joiners - what you need to know

Well first off, you’re probably wondering what the difference is between a carpenter and a joiner. Traditionally, a carpenter works on site to install structural elements like doors and partition walls. A joiner, in general, is involved in non-structural elements, building the items that a carpenter then goes on to install.

This isn’t always strictly the case though, and some tradespeople specialise in certain areas, so when you post a job it’s good to be specific about the work you need done.

If it involves wood, you need a carpenter or joiner. It could be for decking in the garden, installing kitchen cabinets, having some custom shelves or cabinets made… there are lots of different things they can do.

Costs for common carpentry jobs

The qualifications your carpenter or joiner needs

There aren’t any required certificates or qualifications in order to do the work, but most good carpenters will have learnt through college courses and apprenticeships, combined with on-the-job training. If they’ve completed various college courses they might be happy to share those certificates or results, but really the best thing to do is ask about recent work and references. Of course you can also refer to their Rated People profile page to see all their recent reviews.

Planning permission for carpentry jobs

If you want decking in your garden, you don’t need permission as long as:

• The decking is no more than 30cm above the ground.
• Together with other extensions, outbuildings etc, the decking or platforms cover no more than 50% of the garden area.

Most carpentry jobs won’t need any permission, unless you’re in a listed building. This information was correct at the time it was published, but you can go to the Planning Portal to see the latest.

Insurance for carpentry work

There’s nothing specific to carpenters that you need to look out for. Public liability insurance is a common insurance for all tradespeople to have, along with accidental damage cover, in the rare cases when something might get damaged.

Questions you should ask a carpenter

• Do they have public liability insurance and what does this cover?
• How long have they been trading for?
• Can they show you examples of previous work?
• Do they employ or consult specialists?
• Will they be carrying out the work themselves? If not, what experience does the person have and are they covered by insurance?
• Will they give a guarantee/warranty for the work and how long does it last?
• Will they source all materials and equipment?

Carpentry ideas

Turn to carpenters to add stylish furniture to your interiors as well as custom storage solutions. If you’re not sure where the best storage spaces are in your house then check out this post to help you find the best spots. Last but not least here’s how to choose the right doors for your home , and the right decking for your garden.