or are most builders sexist?

[Binkyridesagain]

I am having an extension built, it is partially funded by our coucil, so I have no choice on who builds it.

To date I have had 5 contractors out to quote for the Job, only 1 out of the 5 has treated my like I have an ounce of intelligence, the rest have just seen the fact that I have breasts and treated me as though I have only 2 brain cells.

Todays contractors, these ones have been awarded the contract, have taken the piss. I know the plans upside down, inside out and back to front. I know the issues that the other builders have raised, I even know how to read the drawings the right fucking way round.(unlike the builders) Every time I attempted to answer their questions, I was ignored or their answer was so patronising, I was close to telling them to piss off.

Do all/most/only some builders think that because you have tits and a fanjo you can't possibly understand a MAN job? I can't believe that my experience is the norm. It isn't is it?

I hope they don't think they can treat me as a thicko for the next 10/20 weeks.

"That is why you hire a designer. You talk to the designer, who takes you seriously, s/he talks to the patronising builders. Job done."

As the council are part funding the extension have they designed it as well? Will they inspect the work (they should do as it's public money)?

The designer would be a good person to talk to if you have problems with their builder.

I ask because I have handled several projects for disabled extension / adaption projects and I am expected to inspect and handle any queries / issues raised by the occupier on behalf of the council.

I moved into a construction - allied job a few years ago and had a concern at the back of my mind that I would have shit like this to deal with. I have been very pleasantly surprised. If anything, my knowledge is more often over estimated.

I had many more problems of this ilk dealing with solicitors and accountants in my previous life.

It's crap that you have to deal with it, though.

Our builder is great, we've used him to extend our house in every possible direction and he's a pleasure to have around (as are his 2 sons who work with him). He even makes his own tea, which is great as I am way too lazy to make it. We've recommended him to various other people, he's always busy as he's reliable, reasonably priced and a nice man.

Sounds like you've been unlucky, OP.