News
Cost to homeowners
Each year cowboy builders cost homeowners more than £1billion through shoddy building work, illegal practices, or not even turning up after the homeowner has paid for work to be carried out. The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is warning homeowners to be alert to cowboy builders this Christmas and New Year.
Richard Diment, Director General of the FMB said:
"Rogue traders know that this is a good time of year to start cold calling on homeowners as this is the time when many homeowners are starting to think about improvements they want to make to their home for the coming year. A rogue trader may call at your door saying things like, "I was just passing and noticed that you have loose tiles on your roof, I just wanted to tell you before one falls and injures someone", or "I've been doing some work in the local area and noticed your chimney need re-pointing and wondered if you'd like me to do it for you quickly – I've got material left over". If you ever get a visit from a cold caller just close the door; don't even engage in conversation with them."
Diment added:
"It's easy to be taken in by cowboy builders, the sort of builder that says they can start quickly for cash in hand, after all what difference will it make? But it could make a big difference and cost you a lot; not just through money you pay to them but also having to get the job rectified when it all goes wrong. The FMB always advises homeowners to follow its simple five steps to employing a professional builder. First, be specific and set out a detailed brief and be clear about what you want as this can make a huge difference to quotes."
Diment continued:
"Secondly, ask friends and family if they can recommend tradesmen or check the FMB's 'Find A Builder' website (www.findabuilder.co.uk). And don't be afraid to ask tradesmen for references or to speak to previous clients. Thirdly, get at least three quotes. When you are ready to decide, don't just go with the cheapest, consider communication and quality of work too. Fourthly, always use a contract as it offers you protection if anything does go wrong. You can download free contracts from the FMB website (http://www.findabuilder.co.uk/why/contractsNew). Finally, never pay the full cost of the project up front; agree a payment plan. Using a credit card to pay can offer you more protection."
