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How to Find a Builder or Tradesman in 4 Easy Steps 

Just mention the simple phrase ‘we’ve got the builders in’ and you will evoke sympathy from just about everyone you meet. Yet whilst the thought of hiring a tradesman might fill you with dread, there are 4 easy steps to make the entire process run smoothly.

Step 1 Finding the Tradesperson

The best and easiest way to find a tradesman is to ask around family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. A recommendation from someone you trust is a usually more reliable than an advert. If you spot a house that is having work done to it, don’t be shy about asking the owners what the builders are like. If they are hard working they will be only too happy to recommend them.

Step 2 Checking Up

Once you’ve got your potential tradesman in your sights, ask for names of their previous clients and references. Make sure you speak to these people and ask if you can see the work that the tradesman has done for them. Once you have done this the next thing you need to be sure of is that the tradesman or company is a properly registered firm and not just a man with a van. Goods signs are if they use letter headed notepaper, but make sure that they have an office address and a landline phone number not just a mobile one. Lastly check that they are valid members of a reputable trade association or federation and don’t forget that if they charge you VAT make sure that a VAT number is shown on all their paperwork. 

Step 3 Arranging the Work

When you think that you have found your potential tradesman make sure that you get a detailed written estimate and specification of the work to be carried out. Also make sure that you get more than one estimate so you can judge for yourself whom to employ. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Before any work starts make sure that you agree on any stage or final payments and that you have an insurance backed warranty for the work that is to be carried out. Never give advance payments or cash, as proper tradesmen will not ask for it.

Step 4 How to Work Out Problems

If a problem does arise make sure that you talk to your tradesman straight away, do not wait until later. It is easier for them to put right a problem when you first spot it as if further work is carried out, this might all have to be undone to correct the problem. If your tradesman doesn’t put it right, complain in writing and send it by recorded delivery so you have proof that it has been received. Arranging a meeting at the tradesman’s office to discuss the problem may help too. But if you feel that you are getting nowhere with your tradesman then get advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau, Trading Standards, a solicitor, Building Control or the relevant Trade Association or Federation