Last reviewed: by R Gabriel Carpentry & Builders
To know how to choose a builder, compare at least three detailed written quotes, read independent reviews, visit or see photos of past work, check insurance and any registrations needed for the job, and agree a written contract with staged payments. Confirm who is arranging planning, Building Regulations and party wall notices.
At a glance
- Quotes
- At least three, written and itemised
- Evidence
- Independent reviews and past work
- Paperwork
- Insurance certificate and written contract
- Payments
- Staged, linked to progress
- Approvals
- Agree who handles planning, Building Regulations and party walls
- Specialist work
- Gas Safe for gas; certified electrics
What should you check before hiring a builder?
- Written, itemised quotes – get at least three and compare like for like: what is included, what is a provisional sum, and what is excluded.
- Independent reviews – read reviews on platforms the builder doesn't control, and look for ones that describe similar work.
- Past work – ask for photos or addresses of similar projects, and to speak to a previous customer.
- Insurance – ask to see a current public liability insurance certificate, and check it covers work like yours.
- Registrations for specialist work – gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer; electrical work should be certified under Part P; replacement windows need a competent person certificate such as FENSA or building control sign-off.
- A written contract – price, scope, start and finish dates, payment stages, how changes are agreed, and what happens if things go wrong.
- Approvals – agree in writing who arranges planning permission, Building Regulations approval and party wall notices.
How should you pay a builder?
Avoid paying large sums up front. Staged payments linked to completed stages of work, such as foundations, structure, roof and completion, protect both sides. Paying by bank transfer or card leaves a clear record. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a trader must carry out a service with reasonable care and skill.
What are the warning signs of a bad builder?
- No written quote, or a quote that is far lower than the others with no explanation
- Pressure to decide quickly or to pay a large deposit in cash
- No landline, address or verifiable reviews
- Reluctance to put the contract, approvals or payment terms in writing
- Suggesting you don't need Building Regulations approval for structural work
How does R Gabriel Carpentry & Builders measure up?
We think you should hold every builder to this checklist, including us. Here is how we answer it:
- Free, no-obligation written quotes for every job
- Over 30 years of experience, with most work coming from repeat customers and referrals
- Reviews you can read on our reviews page, TrustATrader and Facebook
- One team covering carpentry, building, roofing, painting and kitchen fitting, so responsibility is clear
- Ask us for insurance details and a previous customer to speak to when we visit
How to choose a builder: frequently asked questions
How many quotes should I get from builders?
At least three detailed, written quotes for the same specification, so you can compare like for like.
Should I pay a builder a deposit?
A modest deposit for ordering materials can be reasonable, but avoid large up-front payments. Staged payments linked to completed work are safer.
Do builders need to be registered?
There is no single legal register for general builders in England, but gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer, and electrical and window work should be certified. Schemes such as TrustMark vet members voluntarily.
Who is responsible for Building Regulations, me or the builder?
Both have duties. Under the dutyholder rules introduced in 2023, the client must appoint competent people and the builder must plan and carry out work that complies. Agree in writing who applies for approval.
What should a building contract include?
The price and what it covers, the scope of work, start and finish dates, payment stages, how variations are agreed and priced, who handles approvals, and how disputes are resolved.
Sources and further reading
Related guides and services
This guide covers the general rules in England and is not a substitute for advice on your own property. Rules change, so check the official sources above before you start.
Planning a project in Hertfordshire? Call 01442 976 112 or 07799 800 880, message us on WhatsApp or send us your project details for a free, no-obligation quote.
