Nine Ways Exeter and East Devon Residents Can Avoid Cowboy Builders

In this three-minute read, we look at how Exeter and East Devon homeowners can protect themselves from unscrupulous builders.

We’ve all heard renovation horror stories. The builder who “does a runner” halfway through a job, leaving a homeowner out-of-pocket and living in a construction site. The messy contractual dispute that winds-up in court and ends in tears. Or the new roof that leaks at the first drop of rain.

The good news is that by following a few simple steps, Exeter and East Devon property owners can avoid getting ripped off.

Jonny Greve, an experienced builder who runs the respected construction firm Greve and Son , has these seven tips for side-stepping cowboy contractors.

1. Online research

Many websites offer consumer reviews and information about tradespeople, such as Checkatrade Checkatrade and Trustmark Trustmark. Do some homework online to see if your chosen builder has a good track record.

2. Membership bodies

Most good builders will be members of at least one trade body such as the Federation of Master Craftsmen Federation of Master Builders, the Guild of Master Craftsmen Guild of Master Craftsmen, or Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme FENSA. Don’t just take their word for it -always double-check a builder’s membership claims.

3. Check the finances

The last thing you want to do is spend tens of thousands of pounds – or more – with a company that is in negative equity or has cash-flow problems. Especially for larger jobs, ensure the builder is in good financial shape by reading over their annual accounts on the Companies House website.

4. See for yourself

Ask to see examples of previous building projects they have completed. Ideally, visit the site and speak to the client (Covid-19 restrictions permitting). Also, find out where the builder is working currently and drive past to see if the site is tidy and if workers turn up on time.

5. Get three quotes and a detailed contract

It always a good idea to get three quotes and to ensure contracts cover the full scope of works. Never leave detailed building projects to chance or make agreements based on a “nod and a handshake”. Here’s a few suggestions to consider: Start and completion times and time-scales for specified jobs. Hours of working. Materials and products to be used – and what will happen if any of the work or materials show defects after the work is complete. Payment terms. Methods of waste disposal, including the location of any skips. Details of how the premises will be secured while work is in progress. A good builder will be happy to agree such matters from the outset.

6. Talk about “extras” before you commit

Things can come up that you hadn’t considered. Get clarification on what will happen if extra work crops up once the job has been started – and what this will cost.

7. Avoid cold-callers

If someone knocked on you door and offers to do a job for you on the cheap, I would immediately be suspicious,” says Jonny. “Good builders are busy builders – for example, I have clients lined up until the end of the year. Steer clear of canvassers and be prepared to wait for a good builder to start work at your property.”

8. Question tradesman who insists on being paid in cash

While the offer of a discount for a cash-in-hand payment may be tempting, this should set alarm bells ringing. Any reputable operator will always be able to provide a business account for payments. Also, be on your guard if a builder asks for cash up-front, as this may be a sign that they are unreliable or untrustworthy.

9. Go on your instinct

Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right when you talk to a builder, exercise caution.

What to do if you think you’ve been ripped-off

If you think you’ve been conned by a dodgy tradesmen or cowboy builder, report them to Trading Standards.

If you’re thinking of selling and would like advice about how renovations, improvements or extensions could add value to your property, get in touch with us here at Wilkinson Grant & Co.