A builder should explain how the work will be organised as well as what it will cost. Ask how labour, materials, subcontractors and inspections will be coordinated.
What to check
Provide the same project information to each bidder. Compare exclusions and provisional items carefully, and confirm who is responsible for approvals and professional input. Agree milestones tied to identifiable work and a written process for variations. Ask for relevant references with consent, and verify the evidence before relying on a claimed track record.
Questions to ask
- Who manages subcontractors?
- Which costs are provisional?
- What evidence supports the builder's relevant experience?
Compare written proposals against the same brief
Give shortlisted providers the same description and ask them to identify exclusions. Separate assessment, labour, materials and any follow-up that applies. A lower total is difficult to judge if it leaves essential work unspecified. Agree who can approve changes and how the finished job will be checked. For work affecting safety or structural performance, use the appropriate qualified professionals and required approvals throughout, not only after a problem appears.
Explore your options on KumaShops
Visit KumaShops listings to look for relevant offers. Check current availability and use the questions above when making an enquiry. An advert is a starting point for your own checks.