The Building Process Employing a Building Contractor: Most homeowners employ a Building Contractor to carry out the work. It is his job to subcontract to other tradesmen and to organise all the building work. Obtaining Quotations Once you have Planning and Building Regulations Approval, you can approach building contractors for quotations. We will supply you with extra copies of the plans if you need them for this purpose. For the best results, use the best contractors; avoid choosing the cheapest quote. The best way to find the best builders is through recommendation and reputation. You can always ask your local Building Control Department: they may not be allowed to actually recommend someone, but they may be able to warn you against known ‘cowboys’! Try to see previous work completed by the builder, or speak to previous clients. Make sure the builder sees the plans and preferably visits the site. It is important to get at least 2 or 3 different quotations in writing. Check what is included in the price. Is Value Added Tax (VAT) included in the price quoted? If so, ensure the VAT Registration Number is clearly shown on the quotation: There are unscrupulous builders who are not VAT-registered, who add the VAT amount and ’pocket it’ for themselves. If you are unsure, you can check if the person or company is VAT-registered with the local customs and excise office.

Managing your own building work:
Homeowners supervising their own building project, while employing tradesmen to carry out more skilled and specialist tasks, can save thousands of pounds.