Don't Blame The Builder How To Create A Building Contract

Date Published:

12/08/2008

Whether you’re getting an extension built, a complete home renovation or a much smaller building job done on your home, it’s essential you draw up a contract with your builder first. Here’s all you need to know.

Why You Need A Building Contract

If you’ve never employed a builder before, you may not know that it pays to have a solid contract before any work starts. If you’ve been watching Don’t Blame The Builder, you’ll have a good idea of why. Many builders are reputable, hard working and honest, but even dealing with those that are can be tricky once the job is underway if you haven’t got everything down on paper in a contract first. So, once you’ve agreed the building work and a price, you need to sort out a contract.

‘A written contract is essential with a builder on a self-build, renovation, or any property project where you’re parting with large sums of money,’ says Jayne Curtis at the Federation of Master Builders, which represents professional building firms. ‘It should detail what work should be carried out, when it is to start and finish and how much it will cost’. It will also protect you and your builder having disagreements: ‘If it’s down in black and white at the outset there is far less chance of misunderstandings later on,’ she adds.

A reputable builder will be happy to sign a contract and should suggest you have one at the outset. ‘You’ll be able to spot a cowboy builder as soon as you mention a contract. They’ll be reluctant to get involved with anything that’s official and may try to persuade you otherwise. Steer well clear of these people,’ warns Curtis.

How To Find A Reputable Builder

Wherever you can, use a builder or contractor who has been recommended to you by friends, colleagues or neighbours. If you cannot find a personal contact, then use the Federation of Master Builders. These builders follow a code of practice which offers you a warranty on defects arising from poor work, faulty materials or structural problems within certain timescales after the work has taken place.

You can also reduce the risk of hiring a cowboy by using the government Trustmark scheme. Anyone with this logo and who you can verify is legitimately part of the scheme, commits to achieving certain standards of work. You can report suspect builders on the Trading Standards/DTI website.