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Builders and Loft Conversions Specialists
There are plenty of good builders and loft conversion specialists out there, the problem is finding them! Everyone has heard of cowboy builders and seen programs like House of Horrors, this should not deter you from considering a loft conversion, rouge builders are in the minority and by taking a few simple precautions you can find a good builder.
References and recommendations
A good builder will be more than happy to give details of previous jobs they have worked on. Some builders will even give you contact details of previous clients. A great way to find a builder is you know someone who has recently had building work completed, you should be able to get an honest appraisal of the quality of the work.
Trade federations
Ask if the builder belongs to any recognised trade federations such as the Master Builders federation. Don't be afraid the check that they are actually members, take a look at theFMB website for further information
Quotes and Estimates
We recommmend that you get several quotes or estimates from builders. Take a look at our page about loft conversion costs to find out more and request a free quotation . Some builders will provide a written quotation and others will provide an estimate. There is a subtle difference between the two, and estimate is just that, an estimate of what the work is likely to cost, the final price may be higher or lower. A quote is a fixed price, but will often have some additional conditions. It is important that you understand the terms on which a builder gives you a price for the work. Ask for a full written estimate or quote that details every aspect of the work to be undertaken. Gaining a full understanding of what is and isn't included in the price at an early stage will ensure that things progress smoothly between you and your builder.