How to pay a builder for services and be protected

[getmeout12]

We're doing some bathroom work. We have selected a builder on my builder. They're a sole trader, good reviews etc. After lots of discussions about the work being done they now want us to make the initial deposit (£4k) so that they can pay for materials etc and as a deposit for the first part of the works. I am nervous about doing that via bank transfer as I have no protection.

I could do via pay pal (and pay an extra £100 or so so that he isn't deducted the Pay Pal fee) but not sure if that's the best way to do it.

Am I overthinking it, or is there a safer way to do this so that I'm protected?

Can you pay by credit card, its some protection.

Ask for a contract - then you can check the terms agreed regarding the deposit and the circumstances in which it would be refunded

Honestly, you need to hire based on a contact you have in your life, someone's friend, neighbour, relative, it's being held accountable in their real life's is the insurance you need.

If you go through one of those trade websites: quote and accept quote through the website, you're covered by the website in addition to making sure you have a written contract which details staged payments and how disputes are handled.