Hi,
I haven't had any building work done before and now we're having an outbuilding put up (4m x 5m). It's just a builder involved so no architect etc so presumably there won't be proper plans drawn up. After hearing various cases of rogue builders, I think I've done due diligence and found someone I trust based on recommendations. Still, I'm aware other things can go wrong: personal problems derailing them from work, mismatched expectations and so on. I'm wondering how to reduce the chances of problems.
I think specifically:
Any help would be great.
Alternatively, if this isn't the best forum for questions like this please feel free to point me in the right direction.
Thank you!
I haven't had any building work done before and now we're having an outbuilding put up (4m x 5m). It's just a builder involved so no architect etc so presumably there won't be proper plans drawn up. After hearing various cases of rogue builders, I think I've done due diligence and found someone I trust based on recommendations. Still, I'm aware other things can go wrong: personal problems derailing them from work, mismatched expectations and so on. I'm wondering how to reduce the chances of problems.
I think specifically:
- how to we ensure expectations match delivery?
- should i expect a builder to just put up a structure based on their experience, rather than having plans drawn up ahead of time?
- what do we need to think about up front?
- who should a builder be registered with?
- what protections do we have? What if there's a problem down the road, or if the building doesnt meet spec (e.g. roof is over 2.5m and therefore violates the building regs or whatever)
- should we expect a contract and if so, what should it specify?
- is it normal to pay at certain milestones? what might those be for an outbuilding.
- what does membership of the Federation of Master Builders REALLY mean? is it trustworthy?
- if they're insured, what should I expect that to cover?
Any help would be great.
Alternatively, if this isn't the best forum for questions like this please feel free to point me in the right direction.
Thank you!