Comparing quotes on price alone rarely tells you which builder is the right fit. These questions help you compare what you are actually getting.
About the scope and price
- What exactly is included, and what is not? Ask for it in writing, room by room.
- Which items are provisional sums or allowances, and how were they worked out?
- How are changes priced and agreed during the job?
About payments
- What is the payment schedule? Stage payments linked to completed work are normal. Be wary of large upfront payments.
- Is there a written contract? A clear contract protects both sides.
About the people and the programme
- Who is my day-to-day contact, and how will we communicate?
- Who will be on site, and which trades are your own team versus subcontractors?
- What is the programme, and what could change it?
- How will the site be kept safe, secure and tidy, and how is waste removed?
About approvals and paperwork
- Who arranges building control, and will I receive a completion certificate?
- Does the work need planning permission or a party wall agreement, and who handles it?
- What insurance do you hold? Ask to see the certificates.
- What guarantee or aftercare do you offer once the job is finished?
About their work
- Can I see photos of similar projects, ideally showing the work in progress as well as finished?
- Can I speak to previous customers?
A good builder will be happy to answer all of these. We set out the scope, programme and payment stages in writing before any work begins.
Planning a project in Greater Manchester or Cheshire? Get a free quote, or message the team on WhatsApp and send a few photos of your space.
